regal princess cruise casino

Regal Princess Review

Mike is our Senior Editor and experienced gambling strategist . A former hockey player, he transitioned to the casino industry after finishing his B.A. in English. Blackjack systems, online casino guides, gambling terms, and more - Mike is familiar with all fine points of gambling.

The Regal Princess in Santa Clarita CA is yet another casino cruise ship that operates as a part of the Carnival PLC cruise ship empire. With not much to differentiate it from its other sister ships in the Carnival PLC fleet, the Regal Princess’ main differentiation is the number of hotel rooms on board – with the Regal Princess offering up over 1,700 which is one of the largest in the fleet. ... For full details on the Regal Princess its onboard gambling offering, accommodation, restaurants and so much more, take a read through our Regal Princess review below.

• Regal Princess Gambling and Games

Regal Princess Venues and Services

• Regal Princess Contacts and About
• Regal Princess FAQ

Gambling in Regal Princess

As is the case with all Carnival PLC cruise ships the Regal Princess offers up an extensive gambling offering. To ensure that all gambling proclivities are catered for both traditional casino table games and more modern electronic games are present on the cruise ships game floor. Due to the popularity of slot machines these days the most extensive offering is in the cruise ships slot machines with 178 machines in operation.

Casino Games

• Colossal Wizards
• Spartacus Gladiator of Rome
• Forbidden Dragons
• Queen of the Wild II
• Lazer Lock Ice Sapphire
• Let it Ride
• Limit Holdem
• No Limit Holdem
• Crazy 4 Poker
• Fortune Pai Gow
• Sharp Shooter
• Single Deck
• Double Deck
• Daily Lotto Draws
• Mini Lottos
• Electronic Blackjack
• Electronic 3-Card Poker

The Regal Princess also offers up an exceptional range of venues and services alongside its onboard casino offering. As is to be expected of the Carnival PLC cruise ships guests are offered luxury accommodation. As well as the onboard accommodation there are also several restaurants, cafes, buffets, grills and bars.

For those who want all of the expected excitement of a cruise ship, the Regal Princess has made sure it does not disappoint on this front, offering guest the opportunity to enjoy live concerts and show entertainment year-round in at one of the many bars onboard.

Hotel, Spa, and Sports

Dining, bars, and entertainment.

• Crafted℠ by Curtis Stone
• The Salty Dog Gastropub
• Chocolate Journeys℠
• Crown Grill℠ (steakhouse)
• Chef's Table Experience
• Vines (wine bar)
• International Café
• Horizon Court (buffet)
• Trident Grill (burgers & hot dogs)

Bars & Night Life

• Club 6 (dance club)
• Crooners Bar

Attractions and Entertainment

• Live concerts
• Show entertainment

Contacts and About Regal Princess

How to get to regal princess.

Regal Princess is constantly in open seas, so to get on board of the ship you must first go to the city where the ship is docked. for more information about the route of the ship, please contact the shipping operator. The address below is for their administrative office.

• Public Transport N/A
• Shuttle Service N/A
• Nearest Highway N/A
• Parking Slots N/A

Frequently Asked Questions

How many slot machines are there in regal princess, how old do you have to be to gamble at regal princess.

In conclusion, the Regal Princess is a standard addition to the Carnival PLC cruise ship lineup. As one of the most recent cruise ships to join the Carnival PLC fleet, with it first being launched in 2014, the casino games on offer are the latest on the market with the 178 slot machines.

• Live concerts and show entertainment
• Over 170 slot machines
• On board sports courts

Disclaimer: With regard to any changes related to the information about a casino, we won't be held responsible if such differences occur. We advise our readers to double-check the official website of the casino for the most accurate information.

• Responsible Gambling
• Contributors
• How We Rate

• CruiseMapper
• Regal Princess deck plans

Regal Princess deck 6 plan (Fiesta-Dining-Casino)

Deck layout and review, review of regal princess deck 6 (fiesta-dining-casino).

Fiesta Deck is the ship's embarkation/debarkation floor.

Princess Theatre (main show lounge with large stage for grand scale musical and show productions featuring comedians, musicians, dancers, singers; also hosts daily enrichment programs; level 1 of 2)

Churchill’s Lounge and Bar (cigar bar/smoking lounge area)

Club 6 Disco Bar (nightclub with large dance floor; served by Club 6 Bar)

Princess Casino (age limit 21+ years, slot machines, gambling tables, own full bar)

Bellini’s Bar (starboard location)

Alfredo’s Pizzeria (largest complimentary pizzeria at sea/capacity 121 seats; hand-tossed pizzas, antipasti, salads, soups, desserts)

Photo-Video Gallery and Shop (onboard photographer photo-video services, equipment, accessories)

Concerto Restaurant (forward Dining Room for “Anytime Dining” between 5:30-10 pm; serves the “Wine Maker’s Dinner” package/$40 PP surcharge)

Galley is the ship’s kitchen.

The Princess Cruises “Chef’s Table” experience (private, multi-course gourmet dining at surcharge per person) is designed by celebrity chef Curtis Stone. The dining package starts with a galley tour, fine Champagne and hors d’oeuvres. Follows a multi-course dinner (in the Dining Room restaurant) prepared by the ship’s Executive Chef.

Allegro Restaurant (aft Dining Room for formal dining with 2 fixed dinner seatings- at 6 or 8:15 pm; serves the “Chef’s Table” private dining package/$115 PP, capacity 12 guests).

This is the announcement bar for Poornima to test the Close Button.  It will expire May 31 2024.

Pre-Cruise FAQ

Onboard faq, post-cruise faq, cruisetours faq.

• Special Offers Sign Up
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On Board FAQ

From shipboard policies to wi-fi, youth programs, and dining reservations, find all you need to know on board..

• Onboard Experience

Get answers to everything from the Best Wi-Fi at Sea and onboard atmosphere to crew appreciation and stateroom services.

Crew Appreciation

What is “Crew Appreciation”? A crew appreciation is a daily amount added to your onboard account, which is shared among the many members of our crew in hotel, dining and entertainment throughout the fleet who help make your cruise experience special. The daily amount of the Crew Appreciation is based on stateroom category.

What if I purchased Princess Plus® or Princess Premier®? * If you pre-paid the Crew Appreciation and/or Service Charge as part of an all-inclusive or other applicable package:

• the payments are bundled into your fare
• the payments are nonrefundable from the time of purchase, except as part of the cruise fare, which refund shall be provided in accordance with our cancelation policy
• no additional amount will be added to your onboard account for the Crew Incentive or for those Service Charges covered by such package

* Find our complete terms & conditions here .

What if I am not satisfied and don’t want to pay the Crew Appreciation? We are committed to meeting and exceeding guest expectations and pride ourselves in delivering excellent guest satisfaction and our onboard team is available to immediately address any concerns you may have about your cruise. We strive to resolve any issues promptly. In the unlikely event you are dissatisfied for any reason, the Crew Appreciation is subject to adjustment, at your discretion, at any time during the cruise up to the time you settle your onboard account prior to disembarkation.

To learn more, see our  Crew Appreciation and Service Charge Policy .

MedallionNet® – Best Wi-Fi at Sea

All ships have been upgraded with MedallionNet® Wi-Fi, allowing guests to stay connected to the web like never before. You can text, post photos, video chat and stream your favorite shows, movies, music and sports with ease. All ships in the Princess® fleet are MedallionNet enabled.  To learn more, visit the MedallionNet page .

Guests can choose to bundle unlimited Wi-Fi (along with other perks) with their cruise with Princess Plus fares. MedallionNet Wi-Fi is also available for purchase in the MedallionClass® app starting at $24.99 USD pre-cruise for a single-device. Platinum and Elite Captain’s Circle members receive a 50% discount on their MedallionNet purchase.

Princess reserves the right to filter content accessed via the ship's internet services. Please note high bandwidth consuming applications such as voice over IP telephony, peer-to-peer file sharing and streaming media may be restricted on board select Princess vessels.

Onboard Atmosphere

Everyone at Princess is committed to ensuring you have a great time on your cruise. So, to preserve a relaxed and friendly atmosphere onboard, we ask that you observe a couple guidelines.

• Should you wish to videotape onboard during your cruise, please feel free to do so. However, videotaping the onboard entertainment performances is not allowed for copyright reasons.
• To reflect the suggested dress code, dinner wear such as pool or beach attire, gym shorts, ball caps and casual jeans (with fraying and/or holes), is not welcomed in the dining rooms. Shoes must be worn.

Stateroom Services

The little extras you find in the best hotels — fresh fruit (by request), available evening bed turn-down, complimentary shampoo, conditioner and body lotion — are provided in every stateroom. Waffle weave cloth bathrobes are available upon request from your stateroom steward for your comfort and convenience.

For those of you who wish to enjoy a relaxing drink in the privacy of your stateroom, bottles of liquor and stateroom bar packages are available for purchase pre-cruise in Cruise Personalizer at non-duty-free prices through room service. The stateroom directory available on your stateroom television lists a complete menu of offerings.

Mini-suites include a welcome glass of sparkling wine, two televisions, a sitting area and a spacious closet, while full suites offer all of these premiums plus complimentary laundry, and use of the Lotus Spa® Thermal Suite (on select ships, excluding Discovery Princess℠, Sky Princess®, Enchanted Princess®, Royal Princess®, Regal Princess®, Majestic Princess®, and Grand Princess®), one-time free mini-bar setup and use of our Disembarkation Lounge.

Each stateroom has other luxuries for your convenience, such as a private safe and refrigerator. In addition, each room is equipped with a 110-volt, 60-cycle alternating current (AC) with standard U.S. plug fittings. Please ask your stateroom steward to check your appliances for suitability before use if you have any questions. All ships are equipped with an electric hair dryer in every stateroom.

Stateroom configuration Staterooms with 3 and 4 berths can be a bunk bed, murphy bed, sofa bed or a rollaway bed. The specific configuration can be confirmed directly through Princess Reservations or your travel agent. Photos, floor plan diagrams, and amenities represent typical arrangements and may vary by ship.

Shopping On Board

The Shops of Princess offer more than just accessories and sundries you may have left at home. Shop on board and benefit from incredible tax-and duty-free savings off suggested U.S. retail prices on fragrances, cosmetics, jewelry and gifts, apparel and liquor.

In addition to our everyday savings, we bring you special promotions throughout the cruise. Once on board, please check for times and locations of these exciting events by accessing  JourneyView™ on your mobile device.

Plus, Elite Captain’s Circle members receive an extra 10% discount in the Shops of Princess– no exclusions!

Special Occasions

Princess makes your birthday, wedding, honeymoon, anniversary or renewal of vows even more memorable. When you’re onboard a cruise with Princess, you’re surrounded by warm, caring people dedicated to making each day a celebration. And for those times in your life that are special, we’ve created a collection of memorable celebration experiences to help you savor those moments for years and years to come.

If you or your travel agent advise us of any occasions of particular importance at least 45 days prior to your departure, we’ll set our “special occasion” staff in motion to spotlight your special event in the dining room or with our special packages and fabulous “extra mile” service. You can advise us of your special occasion directly through the MedallionClass® app.

Choose from a selection of our  Celebration offerings , with extra touches like flowers, wine and champagne. To order a gift or to plan a special event, review our selections and complete the order form.

Smoking Policy

Keeping the comfort of our guests a priority, and in consideration of consumer studies which show smokers are a small minority of guests, Princess has implemented the following smoking policy:

Designated Smoking Areas Clearly marked “Designated Smoking Areas” are available on board and include a sufficient number of ashtrays that are emptied regularly. Generally, these areas include cigar lounges, a section of the nightclub, as well as a portion of the open decks. The Casino and Casino Bar are non-smoking areas on board, with the exception of designated slot machines where guests are permitted to smoke only while playing at those machines. All table games are non-smoking. The Casino will also have one or more non-smoking nights (6 pm to closing), depending on length of voyage. Show lounges, dining rooms and all food services areas on board all Princess ships are non-smoking. As a safety precaution, guests are reminded to properly dispose of cigarettes, cigars and pipe tobacco, which are never to be thrown overboard as this may be sucked back into the ship and cause fires.

Stateroom Smoking Policy Princess Cruises prohibits smoking or vaping of all types, including e-cigarettes, in guest staterooms and balconies. This reflects the preferences of a vast majority of our guests who value having their primary living space (both stateroom and balcony) smoke-free. As balconies are a hallmark of Princess Cruises, we believe it is important to keep this peaceful space clear of smoke. Violations to this policy will result in a $250 fine for each occurrence, which will be charged to the guest’s stateroom account. Keeping with the global trend toward more restrictive smoking policies and honoring the wishes of our guests, we feel this enhances our onboard experience.

Alcohol Policy

As provided in the Passage Contract, on the day of embarkation, guests are permitted to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne on board per voyage, which will not be subject to a corkage fee if consumed in your stateroom. Additional wine or champagne bottles are welcome, but will incur a US$20/AU$30 (depending on shipboard currency) corkage fee each, irrespective of where they are intended to be consumed. Liquor, spirits, or beers are not permitted. Please remember that luggage will be scanned and alcohol outside of our policy will be removed and discarded.*

Alcoholic beverages that are purchased duty free from The Shops of Princess, or at ports of call, will be collected for safekeeping and delivered to the guest's stateroom on the last day of the cruise. A member of the ship's staff will be at the gangway to assist guests with the storage of their shoreside alcoholic purchases while The Shops of Princess staff will assist guests with shipboard alcoholic purchases.

*Princess is not responsible for any alcoholic beverages removed and discarded by shoreside security staff. Such items are not eligible for monetary refund or replacement. Guests found with prohibited items, including alcohol outside of the policy, may need to collect their luggage at a security checkpoint on board.

Age Restrictions on Drinking and Gambling

The age for gambling on Princess ships is 18 years old. The age for drinking on Princess ships is 21 years old*. Guests under the age of 18 will not be permitted in the Casino.

*For cruises between Australia/New Zealand, China, Europe, Singapore and South America ports, the drinking age will be 18 years old. For cruises between Japan ports, the drinking age will be 20 years old.

Security Guide

CRIME PREVENTION AND RESPONSE GUIDE

Princess has zero tolerance for crime on board its ships. This guide is designed to offer information to all guests on proper response procedures and available law enforcement processes in the event that an incident occurs.   

Guests should immediately report missing persons and criminal activity to ship’s personnel so appropriate action may be taken to ensure the safety and security of all persons on board. Timely reporting of an incident is also imperative so that necessary law enforcement notifications can be made as expeditiously as possible. Incidents may be reported at any time by dialing the Purser’s Desk. Missing persons or criminal activity may also be reported to the on board Security Department by dialing the Purser’s Desk. Any situations requiring medical assistance can be reported to the Medical Department at any time by dialing 911 or through the Purser’s Desk.

Princess reports all missing persons and serious criminal incidents such as homicide, suspicious death, kidnapping, assault with serious bodily injury, sexual assaults as defined by existing laws, firing or tampering with the vessel, or theft of money or property in excess of $10,000 to appropriate law enforcement authorities.  In addition to our own reporting policies and other legal requirements, on international voyages that embark or disembark in the United States, U.S. federal law requires Princess to report missing U.S. nationals and the above felonies to the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) by telephone as soon as possible, to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security electronically, and to the U.S. Coast Guard in writing.  These U.S. requirements apply to all such incidents that occur on board in U.S. territorial waters, or at sea or in another country’s territorial waters if the individuals involved are U.S. nationals.  The U.S. FBI may assert criminal jurisdiction in all of these circumstances.  Each of the countries visited, as well as the ship’s country of registry (Bermuda), may also assert jurisdiction and impose additional reporting requirements.  

For missing persons or serious criminal incidents that occur within countries visited or their territorial waters, and for incidents within U.S. states, you may independently contact local law enforcement authorities. You may also contact the U.S. FBI or U.S. Coast Guard for incidents that arise at any time during the voyage. Princess encourages all guests to learn as much as you can about the local laws and customs of the places you will visit. Good resources are your library, your travel agents, and the embassies, consulates or tourist bureaus of the countries you will visit. In addition, keep track of what is being reported in the media about recent developments in those countries. Contact information for the FBI, U.S. Coast Guard and the National Sexual Assault Hotline is listed below. Locations of U.S. Embassies or Consulates in the ports visited and contact information for local law enforcement in these ports is listed on your stateroom's TV.

U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Headquarters, Washington DC (202) 324-3000 Visit FBI website

U.S. Coast Guard National Command Center (800) 323-7233 Visit United States Coast Guard website

National Sexual Assault Hotline Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (800) 656-4673 Visit RAINN website

Staying Healthy

The health and well-being of our guests and crew is our highest priority. And there are several measures that meet or exceed standards set by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention which are currently in place to prevent and contain illnesses on our ships.

The simplest way for you to stay healthy is to frequently and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the toilet. You'll also find hand sanitizers located throughout the ship for your use after washing your hands.

If you feel ill during your voyage, please immediately report to the medical center. All of our onboard medical facilities meet or exceed the standards established by the American College of Emergency Physicians. Our onboard medical facilities are staffed by full-time registered doctors and nurses. In addition to twice-daily office hours, they are available 24 hours a day in the event of an emergency.

Charges for medical services will be added to your shipboard account, and you will be provided with an itemized account to submit to your insurance company. Important: Princess ships are registered in Bermuda. Verify with your insurer if your coverage applies outside the United States, or purchase appropriate travel insurance.

In the event of unexpected travel delays and emergencies, please remember to bring additional prescription medication for at least 2 weeks beyond the length of the cruise. Also bring a list of the names, strengths and dosages of all medications in case refills are required.

Medical Assistance

Our medical centers are primarily intended to provide acute care for illness and accidents that may occur while on vacation and are not intended to provide long term care for patients with chronic illnesses or as a substitute for regular health care.

Our intention is to:

• Provide quality maritime medical care for guests and crew members aboard our ships.
• Initiate appropriate stabilization, diagnostic and therapeutic maneuvers for critically ill or medically unstable patients.
• Support, comfort and care for patients onboard.
• Facilitate the timely medical evacuation of patients, if appropriate.

All of our onboard medical facilities meet or exceed the standards established by the American College of Emergency Physicians. Our onboard medical facilities are staffed by full-time registered doctors and nurses. In addition to twice-daily office hours, they are available 24 hours a day in the event of an emergency.

Laundry Services

Take advantage of our onboard laundry, press-only and professional cleaning service for a nominal fee. All laundry is returned within 48 hours, or on the same day with our express service.

Full suite guests and Elite Captain’s Circle members also enjoy complimentary laundry and professional cleaning service, except for same day service, which carries a charge.

Launderette services may be impacted to adhere to the Health and Safety protocols set by the CDC.

For your convenience, Princess vessels have self-service launderettes where washers, dryers and laundry products are available for a negligible charge. You can conveniently purchase tokens with your Medallion. Please note that irons/ironing boards are available in the self-service laundry rooms. Ironing and using personal clothes steamers are not permitted in any stateroom. Although rare, on certain itineraries environmental regulations relating to the consumption of water may impact the operating hours of the launderettes.

Onboard Currency

Unless noted, onboard currency is in U.S. dollars. However, on select Australian-based itineraries, the onboard currency is in Australian dollars.

By providing your credit card in advance, you are automatically registered for Express Check-Out. There is no need to visit Guest Services to settle your account. We accept U.S. dollars and other major foreign currencies. American Express/Optima®, Diners Club/Carte Blanche®, Discover® Network, the JCB Card®, MasterCard® and Visa® are also accepted. Those paying by traveler's checks or cash will be required to leave a cash deposit with the Guest Services staff at the beginning of the cruise.

For your convenience, Automated Teller Machines for the exchange of foreign currencies are available on vessels sailing out of European ports and on selected exotic itineraries. Use of such machines may involve transaction fees that are subject to change without notice. Please visit the Guest Services staff for more information.

Religious Services

We respect our guests' religious beliefs and invite them to practice on their own or with their fellow guests. Guests who wish to lead religious services may volunteer by contacting Guest Services or a member of the Cruise Staff. In some cases, our shipboard staff will lead services. However, Princess does not place clergy on board our vessels.

Clergy traveling as Guests onboard our vessels are welcome to conduct services while sailing. They should leave their name, cabin number, and services offered at Guest Services and they will be contacted by a member of the Cruise Director's Staff. Approval of services will be made based on schedule suitability, appropriate onboard supplies, etc. Please bring your Letter of Celebret or Letter of Good Standing with you to provide to the onboard staff.

Please note that during Passover, there will be a Seder service (including Passover meal) held onboard. For Hanukkah, services are available and will be guest-led with wine, Challah bread, prayers and an electric Menorah (no candles or live flames) provided by Princess. Supplies are present and available for anyone who wants to lead the service at 5:30 PM on Friday evenings.

If you would like to bring on your own Menorah, you may. However, since candles are prohibited onboard all Princess ships, it must be electric (no live flame).

 Ashes at Sea Ceremony

Princess Cruises offers private shipboard ceremonies for those guests who want to honor their loved ones by resting their ashes at sea. This service must be arranged prior to sailing and approved in advance.

Ship Deck Plans

We make it easy for you to get to know your ship, so that you can start your vacation on the right foot. With interactive deck plans and virtual tours, you’ll be able to see your ship before you board.

Television Programming

Getting away from it all doesn't mean being out of touch. Every stateroom on Princess ships has its own TV set featuring our state of the art video on demand OceanView® system.*

We offer live satellite reception of many popular networks. Channel line ups availability may vary between trades based on availability. A wide array of movies and tv programs are also available on demand to watch at your convenience. A large number of live sporting and entertainment events are available across our fleet. For more information on what might be available on your specific voyage, please feel free to contact Princess Guest Services prior to your voyage, or Guest Services once onboard. Princess offers closed-captioning whenever available from our media providers. Please be advised that some international channels do not offer this feature even though it is standard for US channels. Onboard theaters are equipped with assistive listening devices and they can be provided on request. Please check with Guest Services for more information.

*Ship television programming is not guaranteed at all times due to the nature of satellite communications, which are subject to itinerary and possible disruption from weather patterns and various obstructions. Also, Internet access via satellite is significantly slower than high-speed connections on shore.

Cruising with Family & Kids

Leave your worries behind as you set sail on an adventure the whole family will love.

Preparing for Your Cruise

What is the minimum age to cruise?

Minimum age requirements:

Guests must be at least 6 months of age at the time of embarkation and at least 12 months of age for trans-atlantic crossings and remote itineraries.

Cruisetours: The minimum age for escorted cruisetours is 5 years.

Guests under the age of 21 need to travel in a stateroom with a guest 21 years or older who will assume responsibility for them during the cruise. For family groups booking multiple staterooms, the minimum age for each guest is 16, provided they are traveling with a parent or legal guardian. Unfortunately we are unable to accept group reservations for student or youth groups that do not meet our minimum age requirements.

What travel documents do I need to bring for my child?

Passport requirements: Travel document requirements For U.S. and Canadian citizens

WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND THAT ALL GUESTS TRAVEL WITH A PASSPORT.

Documents for guests under the age of 18:

Several countries require special documentation for children traveling with only one parent or with neither parent, and these requirements can change without notice. Many foreign countries require a single parent or guardian to bring a permission slip for the minor to travel abroad. It’s your responsibility to ensure you have the proper documents for all of the countries you’ll visit. Please verify requirements with the consulates of these countries prior to your cruise.

What other supplies should I bring for my children?

Here are some recommendations:

Travel documents

• Child's airline tickets or e-tickets
• Child's passport, visa and other proof of citizenship
• Notarized statements from spouse/ex-spouse if traveling alone with kids under 18
• Notarized forms if traveling with grandchildren/kids under 18 who aren't your own
• Pediatrician's name and phone numbers (daytime and emergency)
• Child’s ID card (optional)

Medicines & sundries

• Child's prescription drugs or other important medication (in carry-on bag)
• Children’s Benadryl
• Antibiotic cream
• Anti-itch cream
• Children's anti-diarrhea medication
• Children's Tylenol, Advil, Aleve and/or aspirin
• Sun protection – sunscreen, sunburn gel, hat
• Antibacterial hand sanitizer
• Children's insect repellant
• Infant/child's thermometer
• Drops/antibiotics for eye and ear infections

Baby/toddler items

• Diapers (Parents are given special waste bags for diapers, which are removed daily from cabins.)
• Diaper rash ointment
• Ziploc bags (many for diapers and other messes)
• Sippy cups and plastic bottles (keep one in your carry-on)
• Baby formula
• Portable crib if needed
• Stroller: umbrella strollers are most convenient

Other handy items

• Small flashlight
• Favorite stuffed animals, toys and travel games
• Inflatable swim aids

Onboard Activities

What is there for kids and teens to do with and without supervision on board?

Our Camp Discovery Youth Program for kids ages 3-11 will keep little ones entertained all day and evening. To participate independently, children must be age 3+ and potty trained. Our youth centers are operated by experienced staff, dedicated to keeping our youngest guests safe and happy. Our Beach House Teen Lounge is available for teens ages 12-17, with fun activities hosted by our staff.

Family activities include festivals, entertainment, Discovery at SEA experiences such as Stargazing, dining events and, of course, Movies Under the Stars®. Each cruise may have slightly different programs. Please contact us with any questions or reservations for specific childcare and family activities.

COVID-19 Guidelines

• Unfortunately, we will not be offering port day lunch service or dining events.
• Masks required when visiting the youth and teen centers.

What movies are shown? I’m selective about what movies my kids watch.

In the Camp Discovery Youth Program, we show G and PG-rated movies. At the Beach House, teens view G, PG and PG 13 rated movies. Stateroom TVs feature several categories, including a family/kids section. Movies Under the Stars offers family-friendly options throughout your cruise. Check the JourneyView® planner for viewing times.

Will my family like cruising?

Princess offers something for everyone. Taking a cruise is an adventure for family members of all ages: The range of onboard activities is sure to please your toddler, teenager and mother-in-law alike. There are activities and dining options for the most adventurous and the simplest eater in your household. You can choose to be as active or relaxed as you feel like that day. And there’s entertainment for everyone, from Movies Under the Stars® to Broadway-caliber musical productions. On a cruise with Princess you have experiences to share as well as the opportunity and space to do your own thing.

What about “me time” for adults?

We want parents to enjoy their vacations too. Drop off your kids in Camp Discovery during the day (it's free!) so you can explore ashore, visit the Lotus Spa® or read a book in The Sanctuary. Want a date night, perhaps taking in a movie or playing in the casino? For a small fee, we offer babysitting in the evening hours.

Can my kids go on shore excursions with me?

Absolutely. Discovery™ and Animal Planet™ tours are good places to start. Every excursion designates appropriate age ranges, as well as the level of activity to be expected. If you’d rather explore on your own, your child can stay on board at Camp Discovery with our youth staff while in port. Our Beach House Teen Lounge will also be open so your teen can hang out with us should they decide not to go ashore.

COVID-19 Guidelines:  We are unable to offer meal services so our centers will close during lunch and dinner. Children must be picked up during meal times.

How do I coordinate with others in our travel party if we’ve booked separately?

Friends and family often travel together, so this is a common concern. The first thing to do is to call 1-800-PRINCESS or your travel consultant to link your group’s reservations. Secondly, be sure to use our Princess@Sea app to communicate on board via text messaging for supreme convenience. For MedallionClass® ships, you’ll be able to locate your group anywhere on the ship using your personal device through our OceanCompass™ app.

How can I plan a birthday (or another celebration) on board?

Let us know about your special occasions in your Cruise Personalizer, and we’ll prepare a festive welcome aboard note. You can also order celebration packages there, everything from fun gifts to unique experiences on board. If the celebration is for one of your children, notify the Youth Staff, and they’ll be happy to collaborate with ideas.

Age-Appropriate Customized Programs

Is there a dedicated space for kids?

Our youth and teen centers entertain ages 3 to 17. Our pools and sports courts are both child- and family-friendly spaces to be experienced together.

What is available per age group and what are the rules around signing in and out?

• Ages 3-11: Camp Discovery (The Treehouse and The Lodge)

*Children must be at least 3 years old and toilet trained to participate independently. Children ages 3-7 must be signed in and out by a parent or person authorized by the parent(s). Children ages 8-11 may sign themselves in and out with parent approval.

• Ages 12-17: The Beach House

*Teens can come and go from the center as they please, with no sign in/out required. However, parents can restrict this privilege for their child at anytime.

Who operates the youth centers?

Our team of experienced youth staff undergo stringent background checks and must be recently certified in CPR and basic first aid. In case of a true medical emergency, onboard medical staff are just a phone call away.

Can adults visit the youth centers?

We’re happy for parents and others to join in the fun. In fact, we offer an open house event on embarkation day for loved ones to take a peek at all the fun. For the safety and security of our young guests, we only allow adults in our centers who have children participating in the program. If the center is full, we may ask parents to come back at another time.

COVID-19 Guidelines:  At this time, we are limiting access to the centers. Only participants are permitted.

How do I register my child for the youth program?

It’s simple. Register through your Cruise Personalizer, or you can come directly to the youth center to meet the team. We look forward to showing you around and telling you about our program. FYI: Participation in our program cannot be guaranteed, especially on cruises with lots of families, but we’ll make every effort to include everyone we can. Hours of operation are subject to change.

Where can I find a schedule of activities for kids?

You can find this information in JourneyView®. Get the Patter and schedule of events in the centers from the Youth Staff.

It’s Our Pleasure to Accommodate You

What if I've forgotten something?

Of course! We’re happy to accommodate special arrangements before you embark or while on board the ship. If you want to request certain items, i.e. a portable crib, please call 1-800-774-6237 (1-800-PRINCESS) or visit your Cruise Personalizer in advance. Many items, such as high chairs and boosters, can be requested once on board by calling the Guest Services Desk. (Quantities are limited.)

Can I purchase baby supplies on board?

We recommend buying baby supplies before embarking on your voyage.  Only some ships have diapers/wipes on board for purchase.  Jarred baby food, Stages 1 & 2, can be requested in advance through your Cruise Personalizer. Fresh pureed fruits and vegetables can also be requested in the main dining rooms.

Who should I inform if my child has special needs?

Simply go to the MedallionClass® app. Under your OceanProfile® click on the “ accessibility & dietary requirements ” tab. Dietary restrictions and food allergies can be added in the MedallionClass® app or sent to  [email protected] .

When registering for our Camp Discovery Youth and Teen Programs, please add any information you feel would assist our staff in accommodating your child. As part of the registration, there is a section to complete regarding allergies, special needs, medical conditions and more. Our team is happy to provide accommodations to ensure your child has a great experience in our youth centers.

Who should I inform about my child’s allergies or medical condition?

Also in the MedallionClass® app, under your OceanProfile® click on “ accessibility & dietary requirements ". These notations will notify all restaurants on the ship about food allergies, and special accommodations will be made to keep your family safe. For your added peace of mind, our onboard medical facilities are staffed by full-time registered doctors and nurses. In addition to twice-daily office hours, they are available 24 hours a day in case of an emergency.

How do I reserve a portable crib?

Call 1-800-PRINCESS to reserve ahead of time, or request one from your cabin steward once on board. Cribs are provided on a first-come, first-serve basis. You are always welcome to bring your own travel crib.

Seeking a Babysitter?

Is there babysitting available on board? Yes. Camp Discovery and Beach House Teen Lounge is open during the day and evening for your convenience, on sea days and port days. From 10PM – 1AM, we offer group babysitting in the centers for kids ages 3-11 for $5 per child per hour.

Do you have childcare while the ship is in port?  We do, and it’s complimentary! Just drop the kids off, and we’ll take care of them. The Beach House is also open for teens while in port. Early/late excursion? No problem; we’ll open early or stay late to accommodate you.

Dining Options for Families

Where can families eat together on the ship?

There are plenty of casual dining options in the World Fresh Marketplace, The Eatery, Horizon Court, International Café, and at our top deck grill, pizzeria and ice cream bar. More formal options are also available any time in the main dining room. If you are in a hurry and are eating in the main dining room, please mention this to your waiter and they will accommodate a ‘quick service’ request.

Are there children’s menus or other foods for children?

Children’s menus are offered in main dining rooms and by request at specialty restaurants. Kids eat for half price in our specialty restaurants. Pizza, burgers, hot dogs and ice cream can be found at various dining locations. Complimentary jarred stage 1 & 2 baby food is available, if requested in advance via the Cruise Personalizer. Additionally, pureed fruits or veggies can be requested in the main dining room.

Beverages on us:

• Main dining room and World Fresh Marketplace/Horizon Court at  breakfast  only: apple, orange, cranberry, pineapple, tomato and prune juices (excludes freshly squeezed orange juice)
• All-day offerings: lemonade, milk and chocolate milk
• Complimentary on ships in Alaska in the main dining room and Horizon Court/World Fresh Marketplace: hot chocolate

Get a booster chair and/or high chair:

• Request on board with restaurant staff.
• High chairs and booster seats are available in the main dining room, specialty dining restaurants and Horizon Court/World Fresh Marketplace on all ships. Quantities are determined by ship size and dining capacity and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• Neither high chairs nor booster seats may be reserved ahead of time.

Children with Special Needs

Go to the MedallionClass® app, and under your OceanProfile select the “ accessibility & dietary requirements ” tab. Dietary restrictions and food allergies can be added here or sent to  [email protected] .

When registering for our Camp Discovery youth and teen programs, let our youth staff know of any medical, special needs and/or allergies, and we will make every effort to accommodate them. Please be advised that youth staff may not offer one-on-one supervision or administer medication. Our team is happy to provide accommodations to ensure your child has a great experience in our youth centers.

Please be advised that filling out the Mobility Questionnaire is to ensure that our Access Office can properly assist you with your accessibility and mobility needs. It is not an approval or confirmation of any request, nor does it guarantee being booked into or moved to an accessible cabin. Please ensure that you discuss your cabin needs with your Travel Advisor or our Reservations department.

Safety First (and Second and Third)

What if there’s an emergency at sea?

Rest easy: Your crew is fully trained to respond to emergencies, following strict protocols. If the issue is medical, there’s a fully operational clinic on board, equipped to treat more than just seasickness. Youth staff members are certified in CPR and basic first aid and have experience accommodating everything from allergies to special needs.

Do onboard pools have age or height restrictions?

Parents must supervise their children at all times when using the pools, as there are no lifeguards on duty. Because of U.S. public health restrictions, children in diapers, even swim diapers, may not use the pools.

Do you have safety floatation devices for the children who are unable to swim?

No, but parents are welcome to bring their own inflatable safety floating devices appropriate for their child’s age and weight.

How can I communicate with my kids on board?

On Princess MedallionClass® ships, we offer tracking that lets you know where your child is at any time, thanks to the complimentary, wearable device known as the OceanMedallion™. Also through the MedallionClass® app, you can chat/text with your kids, anywhere on board.

Are there age restrictions in general on the ship?

Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult when:

• They’re under 18 and want to use the spa, sauna or steam room
• They’re under 16 and want to use the fitness centers

Guests must be at least 18 to:

• Receive body treatments in the spa. (Other services are okay, if a parent accompanies them).
• Play in our casinos
• Visit the night club after 11 p.m.

Take note, we’re mindful of the drinking age for the places we sail, which is:

• 21+ in the U.S.
• 20+ in Japan
• 18+ in Europe, Australia, China and Singapore
• Dining & Nightlife

Experience a variety of dining options and nightlife on board a Princess cruise.

Formal Nights

We want to make it as easy as possible for you to know what to pack and what to wear when you’re dining onboard.

Dress code: When formal nights are held, please observe the dress code in the dining venues for the enjoyment of all our guests.

• Evening gown, cocktail dress or elegant pant suit for women
• Tuxedo, dark suit or dinner jacket and slacks for men

See below for an example of formal night schedules based on the length of your cruise.

Onboard Entertainment

Fill every day with a wide variety of exciting onboard activities from basketball to table tennis to trivia. Watch a culinary demonstration, enjoy wine tasting, or join in games by the pool. Our ships have all the amenities you need for a real vacation, one where you can recharge and reconnect with loved ones.

Or opt for an exciting array of stage shows, most of which are written, costumed and choreographed exclusively by Princess. Curtain times vary; Just check JourneyView® activities timeline in the MedallionClass® app for show times.

Don't forget to bring along your dancing shoes, because Princess has several dance venues and live entertainment to get you into the swing of things. We start early and finish late. Just check JourneyView® activities timeline in the MedallionClass® app for show times and places to give your partner a whirl.

Every cruise also features a great selection of recent hit feature films for your viewing pleasure. On all ships, guests can also experience Movies Under the Stars®, our 300-square-foot outdoor movie screen and watch the latest films, sporting events and concert videos - all from a comfortable deck chair. Movies Under the Stars lights up your life - day and night.

Casino Games

Our casinos offer the most popular table games, including blackjack, roulette, Caribbean stud poker and craps. We also feature a full range of exciting slot and video poker machines, as well as regular Snowball Jackpot Bingo sessions held throughout the cruise.

Complimentary gaming lessons for slots and table games are held on each cruise, along with exciting tournaments. Plus, if you want to surprise your friends with a lucky side bet, you can choose a $25, $50, or $100 credit, redeemable in the shipboard casino.

Take the fun of casino games wherever you go. With Ocean® Casino you can wager on portals around the ship or play wherever you please – stateroom, poolside, spa, anywhere! – through the MedallionClass® app. Our practice mode uses virtual money so you can get to know our casino games on board when the ship’s casino is closed. Raise the stakes and even place wagers on sporting events with the Ocean® Sportsbook feature.

Persons under the age of 18 are not permitted to gamble or remain in the casino. For those guests interested in playing at our higher limit tables, please contact our Casino Department at 1-800-5CASINO (1-800-522-7466) for more details.

Which forms of payment can you use at the Princess Casino? Credit cards are not accepted in the casino; all activity is charged to the guest’s stateroom account, which must then be settled prior to disembarking from the ship. Cash or traveler’s checks may be exchanged for casino chips.

What are the Casino’s hours of operation? Hours vary from ship to ship, depending on the itinerary. We recommend guests check the MedallionClass® app for casino operating hours. We offer 24-hour* slots while the ship is at sea.

What are the rules on cameras? Guests are allowed to take still photographs in the casino but video recording and cellphones are not allowed. Guests are asked to respect the privacy of other guests as they use their cameras.

Is smoking allowed? Guests may smoke in designated areas when the casino is operating.

*Not offered on Australian controlled ships.

1st Day Dining

Shortly after we welcome you on board your spectacular Princess ship, you're invited to relax and dine at the World Fresh Marketplace at Horizon Court (varies by ship). The ship's multiple main dining rooms are also available.

Open from 5 am to 11 pm (12 am on select itineraries), World Fresh Marketplace at Horizon Court offer a wide selection of quick meals and snacks.

Or join us in one of our main dining rooms for lunch served up by a staff – from chefs to waiters – dedicated to making your dining experience something special.

Together, Princess' unique combination of gracious dining staff, fine continental cuisine and new friends make every meal on board a memorable occasion.

Personalized Dining

Dine when and how you want with this new offering that lets you customize every aspect of mealtime. Make reservations for the main dining room or specialty restaurants at your preferred time each day. Fit in a formal dinner before a show, or order food and drinks to your poolside perch with OceanNow®. The choice really is up to you.

Specialty Restaurants

Variety is the spice of life, especially when it comes to evenings when you want an extra memorable dining experience. That's why Princess offers several specialty restaurant options for you to choose from on every ship.

Our distinctive restaurants provide intimate dining in an upscale atmosphere. Reservations are suggested at these popular venues. And because our restaurants at sea are truly a unique treat, a specialty restaurant cover charge will apply per person.

Specialty restaurants vary on a ship basis.

Casual Dining Venues

When a casual mood calls, you have plenty of choices – even on formal nights, you’re able to choose how you dine with us.

Room Service

Guests may call for room service delivery or order through OceanNow® in the Princess® MedallionClass® app at any time of the day or night. Guests with the latest Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages enjoy OceanNow® and room service delivery with no charge. Otherwise, a one-time access fee of $14.99 USD per person per voyage will apply for OceanNow® delivery and a $5 USD room service fee will apply for each order placed by stateroom phone. To order, guests can press the "Room Service" button on their stateroom phone, or order through OceanNow®.

Limitations, restrictions and conditions apply.

Dietary Restrictions and Requirements

Princess is happy to meet your request for low-sodium, low-fat, low-sugar and vegetarian diets.  Visit Cruise Personalizer®  to indicate your dietary preferences.

In addition, kosher meals and baby food are available upon advance written request. Any other special diet requests must be authorized in advance by the Princess corporate office.

You or your travel consultant must advise Princess in writing of any special diet, allergies or medical needs. Requests must be received no later than  35 days prior  to departure for cruises to Alaska, Canada/New England, Caribbean, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama Canal and Coastal Getaways.  For all other cruises, requests must be received no later than 65 days prior to departure.  Once onboard, please check with the Director of Restaurant Operations to confirm your request.

Any special dining requests (name brands, daily food order requests, sample menus, etc.) not related to medical or allergy requirements should be directed to the onboard dining staff and is not handled by our Dietary Office.

Wi-Fi & Phone Communication

To provide greater peace of mind, we make it easy to stay in touch.

MedallionNet® Wi-Fi

Cell phones at sea.

Every Princess ship is equipped with an advanced cellular communications network. This network allows you to send as well as receive voice calls, text messages and data services on your personal mobile device. Mobile device service is available for use when the ship is at sea, in international waters and in other areas where such use is permitted. All charges will be conveniently billed to you by your mobile device provider.

Your wireless provider must have a roaming agreement with Wireless Maritime Services (WMS) in order for you to use your mobile phone with this service. Your mobile device must be able to roam internationally, and international roaming must be enabled on your device. If you have a prepaid device, please confirm with your wireless carrier if you are able to use it at sea; not all prepaid devices are supported.

Rates for cellular service at sea are determined by your wireless carrier.  For questions about your service while cruising, including cruise packages offered, pricing or billing, please contact your wireless provider's customer service department.

For additional information and tips on using your cellular while cruising visit  cellularatsea.com

Contact Phone Numbers

To provide greater peace of mind while you're away from home, give friends and relatives the following information on how to telephone you. Contact your phone company directly for rates, your phone company will charge you directly for calls made to the ship. When calling, please include guest name and stateroom number to ensure quick delivery.

Guests may use their personal mobile devices onboard while at sea in international waters and in other areas where such use is permitted. A compatible mobile device and a service plan capable of roaming internationally with Maritime Communications Partners AS is required. Please contact your wireless service provider for availability and rates. 

For calls originating outside of the US and Canada, the following numbers should be used, preceded by your country's International Direct Dialing (IDD) code. Please contact your long distance service provider for pricing. For example, if you would like to call the Diamond Princess from the United States, dial +1 661 593 6070.

En Route Delays

If you encounter unforeseen flight or weather-related delays on sailing day, we suggest you immediately advise an airline representative at the airport that you are a cruise guest destined for sailing that day. Typically, airlines are able to arrange alternative flights at the airline counter for passengers to continue with their travel to the point of embarkation. It is the airline’s responsibility to make alternate flight arrangements resulting from a delay or cancellation.

In the event costs are incurred, you are responsible for out of pocket expenses. If you have purchased travel protection, costs incurred as a result of trip delay are likely to be covered by Trip Delay protection. Please ensure to keep all receipts for submission and contact your travel plan administrator for assistance and clarification.

If your delay involves missing the ship in the port of embarkation, you must immediately contact the En Route Desk to confirm that you will be permitted to join the vessel at the next port of call. In certain instance, you will not be permitted to join the vessel at the next port, if the late embarkation will result in a violation of the Passenger Vessel Services Act (PVSA).

Upon learning your new flight arrangements, we ask that you immediately contact Princess with your new flight information for our records. You may call us toll-free at 800-545-0008. This special number is operational only in the United States and Canada.

Outside of the United States and Canada you may reach us at 661-284-4410. Within Australia, use 13 24 88. Princess representatives are available to answer this emergency en route line from  5 a.m. - 8 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday, and 5 a.m. - 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Saturday and Sunday.

After hours support is available in the event of “en route” delays. These calls will be routed to our customer service centers in Australia or the United Kingdom, subject to the time of call. Our representatives will record your new flight information into your booking record.

If your checked baggage is delayed or misdirected by a common carrier, immediately report this to the carrier. Once you arrive onboard, report this delay to the Passenger Services Desk, providing the claim number and bag description.

As a courtesy, the onboard staff will assist in following up with the airline; however, any costs incurred in forwarding the luggage to the ship is at the guest’s expense. Guests who have purchased travel protection should verify with their policy carrier regarding Baggage Protection, which may include baggage delay coverage. Please keep all receipts for submission and contact your travel plan administrator for assistance.

If you have purchased Princess Vacation Protection (PVP) and Princess EZair® and experience a delay reaching your cruise or land package, and you require assistance booking flights, accommodations, and transfers, please contact On Call International toll-free at 866-509-7712, or from outside the U.S. or Canada call collect at 603-894-9386. Payment is required up front for these arrangements, but can be submitted to the plan administrator for reimbursement of eligible expenses after your trip. Once your new arrangements are confirmed, the representative at On Call International will contact the En Route Desk to provide us with the details.

IMPORTANT:  The En Route numbers provided above are for unforeseen delays. If you have any other questions, please contact your travel consultant. Princess is not responsible for any airline delays regarding Baggage Protection, which may include baggage delay coverage. Please ensure to keep all receipts for submission and contact your travel plan administrator for assistance.

More Frequently Asked Questions

• Prepare for Your Cruise
• Before You Leave for Your Cruise
• What To Pack for a Cruise
• Travel & Transportation
• Shore Excursions
• Cruising with Family & Kids
• Keeping in Touch
• Disembarkation
• Report a Lost Item or Luggage
• Onboard Stateroom Account
• Alaska Cruisetours
• Asia Cruisetours
• Australia Cruisetours
• Canada & New England Cruisetours
• Europe Cruisetours
• South America Cruisetours

Common questions and topics

The OceanReady® Process

Princess MedallionClass® FAQ

Dress Code and What to Pack for a Cruise

Cancellation Policy

Future Cruise Credits (FCC)

Travel Documents

Prohibited Items

You may also like

• Princess Vacation Protection
• Princess EZair®
• Cruise Tips, Advice and Information
• Military Cruise Benefit Program
• Princess® Rewards Visa® Card
• Onboard Gifts & Services

Quiltripping

Life is a patchwork of experiences

Cruising Like a Princess – A Complete Regal Princess Cruise Review With Photos

In this Regal Princess cruise review I share my detailed expereinces on this beautiful Royal Class ship, including lots of photos.

Last Updated on 05/25/24 by Rose Palmer

I was lounging in a deck chair with an Irish coffee in hand, tucked under a cozy blanket and watching a movie on the big screen as the sun set behind me.

I do not think of myself as a princess – quite the contrary. But occasionally, I do like being treated like one. For a little while, it’s nice to have someone else make my bed, cook my meals, and bring me a specialty drink when I am in the mood for one.

A cruise gives me all this and more. I love being on the water. I love the feeling of the gentle rocking of the ship under my feet. I love staring at the ocean and watching the sunshine play on the waves. And I love feeling and smelling the salty breeze when I am on deck. Being on a ship gives me a sense of serenity that I don’t normally feel when I am on land.

My Regal Princess cruise review

In recent years, I have really become a fan of cruising with Princess. For me, they offer a perfect balance of value, quality service, and interesting itineraries.

I have sailed on the Ruby Princess through the Panama Canal , the Sky Princess along Norway’s coast , the Sapphire Princess around South America and to Antarctica , and the Island Princess in Alaska.

This time I tried the Regal Princess with a 12 day cruise around the British Isles, and I was very pleased with both the ship and the destinations we visited.

What I loved about this Regal Princess cruise

After having been on a number of other Princess ships, the Regal had many familiar spaces that I have come to enjoy: the International Café, Movies Under the Stars, the Enclave, and the Piazza. Yet the ship also had unique design elements which made it fun to explore, like the fountains on deck 16.

As always, I cannot fault the service that I received while on board. It was efficient, prompt, and always offered with a warm and friendly smile. I know how hard the crew works on these ships and I am always amazed at the genuine friendliness that they offer. And I am happy to reward it.

I like to cruise with Princess because of their unique itineraries, and this one was no exception as this cruise took me all around the British Isles. With port calls in England, both parts of Ireland, along with Scotland, this was an easy way to get a taste of the different cultures in each country. It was a very busy schedule with only a few of the sea days that I love, but I certainly did get the opportunity to have many unique experiences.

How I got to the Regal Princess in Southampton

My first cruise from Southampton, England was on the Sky Princess and started with an overnight flight from the USA to Heathrow Airport. I chose to transfer on my own to the cruise dock which was quite easy.

After clearing customs at Heathrow, I went to the National Express information desk and purchased a bus ticket that took me directly from the airport to Southampton.

Getting to the bus station at the airport was an easy walk, even with my luggage, and was well marked – I just followed the signs. After waiting for my bus, it was a comfortable two hour bus ride to Southampton which let me take a quick nap after my overnight flight.

From the Southampton bus station, it was an easy 10 minute walk to my hotel, The Moxy, which is part of the Marriott collection of hotels. This was a hip, modern hotel and had everything I needed for my one night stay – in particular, a comfortable bed to catch up on sleep.

The next day I walked to the pier where the Princess ships dock (though you could also have taken a taxi).

For this trip on the Regal, I arrived in Southampton on a high speed ferry from the Isle of Wight where I spent a few days before the cruise relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Even though the ferry dock was not far from the cruise port, I chose a quick cab ride to get to the Regal Princess rather than walk with my bags for 20 minutes.

I booked this trip last minute and did not have a chance to fill in all the necessary information on the Medallion App. No worries – the check in staff added it all into their system for me in about 5 minutes. I picked up my medallion and was climbing the gangplank and heading to lunch in no time.

My Regal Princess room review

I booked a standard balcony cabin on deck 12 forward, almost at the very front of the ship. I don’t get sea sick and like the slight motion that I feel in a forward cabin, especially when I am sleeping. And since I was traveling alone, this was more than enough room for me.

My balcony cabin was 222 square feet and for just one person, was sufficiently roomy, with more than enough storage space (most of which I didn’t need). Each of the two nightstands had two drawers and an open shelf. The desk also had three drawers, one of which held a hair dryer.

Across from the desk was a credenza which held a small fridge and three open shelves. There was also a small round coffee table which I actually put into the closet area to get it out of the way since I really didn’t need it.

I love the beds on a Princess cruise – it’s one of my favorite features. The bedding is crisp and the pillows are fluffy, just the way I like them. With such a comfy bed and the slight rocking of the ship, I always sleep very well when I am sailing on a Princess ship.

My closet was roomy and came with 35 hangers (yes, I counted) and a floor to ceiling cabinet that held the safe and more shelves for storage.

The bathroom wasn’t large, but had enough space for one person to easily maneuver in it. There were three open shelves by the mirror and a large open shelf under the sink. There was also a walk in shower which I prefer over a bathtub-shower combo.

As I have often encountered on cruise ships, there were not enough outlets and no USB ports. There were only two outlets by the desk: one for an American plug and one for a European plug. This worked fine for just one person in the cabin, but may not be enough for two people and all their electronic gadgets.

There was also an outlet in the bathroom that took a two pronged American plug or a European plug.

To make sure I can charge all my electronics, I bring a cruise ship approved multi outlet power strip with USB ports. Note that surge protectors are not allowed on board.

The Regal Princess ship details

• Royal class
• Year inaugurated – 2014
• Last refurbished –2017
• Last dry dock – April, 2022
• Maximum number of passengers –3560
• Maximum number of crew -1346

A few things to note:

The Regal Princess is the sister ship to the Royal Princess and both ships are said to be very similar (though I have not been on the Royal yet). As one of the earliest ships in the Royal Class line, I found familiar elements from the Ruby and Sapphire, both of which are Grand Class ships that I had previously sailed on, along with elements that are distinctive to the Royal Class ships.

Notably, the Regal Princess still had a small library with books and games. There was also The Wheelhouse Bar and Crooners Bar, both of which I did not experience on the Sky Princess, one of the other Royal class ships I have sailed on.

Like the other Royal class ships, the Regal Princess did not have a fully open promenade deck. Deck 7 had an outdoor promenade area but you could not walk it around the whole ship and the lifeboats hung here so views were very much impeded by them.

However, the jogging track on deck 17 provided a circular walking area with unhindered ocean views.

Deck 5 – Plaza

The Piazza – The beautiful three story Piazza was the beating heart of the Regal Princess, and the one here on the Regal did not disappoint. Much like the piazza in an Italian village, this was the central gathering spot where I could have a cup of coffee, get a drink, listen to music, or have a meal. Lots of marble, glass, and gold accents made this a bright and cheery place to hang out day or night.

The Piazza was surrounded by bars, eateries, and shops, and there was usually some type of musical performance or fun activity going on throughout the day.

Surrounding the Piazza were:

The International Café   – this was my favorite spot to get breakfast, a light meal, little deserts, and delicious specialty coffees (extra fees without a package). The best part was that the café was open 24 hours so I could indulge in a late night snack after a show.

My problem was that they changed out the breakfast items at 10 AM so I had to make sure to get down there in time to get my favorite almond croissants.

Good Spirits at Sea – I am not a big alcohol drinker, but when I wanted to try a special craft cocktail, this was the spot to go to. This was also a good location to grab a seat and watch the action in the Piazza.

Vines Wine Bar – this bar was where I went to try different wines from around the world. This was also one of the casual dining restaurants where I could get a plate of charcuterie and truffles to accompany a glass of wine (extra charges applied without a package).

Gelato – I loved this ice cream spot which was one of my favorite indulgent snacks. There was a wonderful array of gelato flavors and options for creative ice cream concoctions (minimal extra charges applied).

Shops of Princess – Celebrations – if I forgot something, this shop had a very limited selection of necessities, along with touristy items.

I nternet  café – a small corner with desks and computer monitors where I could catch up on e-mails or ask for IT help.

Aft of the Piazza:

Symphony Dining Room – this was one of the three main dining rooms on the ship which and was open for breakfast and dinner on port days and breakfast, lunch, and dinner on sea days.

Forward of the Piazza:

Guest Services – I went here to get my questions answered and to get help during a cruise. The staff was always very professional and friendly. There was also a kiosk here where I could print my folio any time using my medallion. 

Shore Excursions Desk – I did not book any shore excursions ahead of time so the desk here was where I went to get information about what was available. I easily booked the shore excursions I was interested in via the Princess Cruises app but I could also book them in person with the desk staff here.

Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria – one of the specialty restaurants on board featuring delicious Italian dishes. I loved my dinner there one night.

Lotus Spa and Salon – the Lotus spa and salon offered all the usual services: massages, beauty salon, mani and pedi, etc. But my favorite experience here was the Enclave, an indoor heated space with a small pool, heated loungers, and steam rooms. To access the enclave I had to buy a package for the length of the cruise, though day passes were also available toward the end of the trip.

On the last sea day of the cruise I had a relaxing pedicure with views of the ocean as the chair massaged my back. Heavenly!

Deck 6 – Fiesta

Public spaces forward to aft:

Princess  Theater lower level – this large venue was where I went to see the evening production shows, other performances, and enrichment lectures.

Churchill’s Arcade   – a variety of arcade games replaced the cigar lounge.

Club Six – I liked going to this cozy lounge at night to listen to music. During the day it was a quiet spot that was usually not very busy.

Princess Casino – the Regal is unique in that it had an open spiral staircase in the center of the casino that led up to deck 7.  For those that like to gamble, there were many slot machines and gaming tables to choose from.

Bellini’s – with views of the Piazza, this was another nice bar to try a new mixed cocktail.

Photo gallery – the spot to look at and purchase my cruise photos.

Oceanfront – I had the option to purchase a variety of pretty accessories for my Medallion here.

Alfredo’s Pizzeria – this was another one of the casual dining options where I got a fresh, made to order pizza (extra charges applied without a package). I ate here on the first night of the cruise to celebrate the beginning of my holiday.

Concerto Dining Room – this dining room was open for all three meals on sea days and for breakfast and dinner on port days. This was and was also where afternoon tea was served on sea days. This was also the dining room where Reserve dining was offered for guests staying in Reserve mini suites and full suites.

Allegro Dining Room – another of the three dining rooms open for dinner. I could only access this dining room from the aft lift area. This was also where I had the special Chef’s Table Lumiere dinner.

Deck 7 – Promenade

Public spaces moving forward to aft:

Princess Theater upper level – I usually preferred accessing the theater from this level.

Fine Arts Gallery – showing new art for the art auctions at sea.  

The Shops of Princess – there were plenty of choices for browsing and buying.

Ocean Terrace Sushi  – one of the casual dining restaurants with sushi and sashimi. I could order from a set menu or just get a roll or two (extra charges applied without a package).

Crooners Bar – a large space with lots of cozy seating. I liked listening to the piano musician that often played here.

Shops of Princess – more choices for shopping.

Future Cruise Planning and Captain’s Circle Loyalty – I put a deposit on a future Princess cruise and received free onboard cruise credit.

Princess Live Cafe – another spot to get coffee in the morning or cocktails all day. There was lots of elegant seating in this area.

Princess Live! – one more venue for many different types of entertainment throughout the day.

Wheelhouse Bar and Crown Grill – specialty steakhouse restaurant serving fine steaks and seafood as well as a bar with lots of seating area.

The Library – unlike the newer Royal Class ships, the Regal Princess still had a library with some seating, and a nice selection of books and games to borrow.

Vista Lounge – another large venue for a variety of activities throughout the day, and more entertainment in the evening. Note that this space does not have its own bar.

Outside on deck 7 I also found the Promenade Deck and Alfresco Dining. This outdoor space did not go all around the ship and the forward portion was inaccessible while at sea. The lifeboats hung here all along the side of the ship, so the views were limited. There was a small area aft with some deck chairs that was usually not busy. 

Deck 14 – Riviera

Concierge Lounge and Wedding Chapel – This deck had mostly cabins, but this was also were the Concierge Lounge and Wedding Chapel were located. The Concierge Lounge was only available to suite guests.

Deck 16 – Lido

Prego Pizza – I love this thin, crispy crust pizza. I liked to get a couple of slices of Neapolitan style pizza for a quick snack or lunch. Each day there was a special that offered different toppings along with the typical cheese and pepperoni pizzas.

Mermaid’s Tail Bar – conveniently located between Slice and the Trident Grill, this poolside bar was good for drinks of all types to accompany that slice of pizza or burger.

Trident Grill – this spot by the pools was good for a quick lunch and had a menu of burgers, fries, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, or tacos. It was quite busy during lunchtime, but not busy in the evenings.

Fountain Pool and Plunge Pool – the Fountain Pool was the bigger, deeper pool while the plunge pool was a smaller, more intimate spot to cool off.  There were also a couple of hot tubs here.

Fountain area – In between the two pools was a deck area that acted as a stage for activities as well as a venue for evening fountain shows set to music.

Sea walk – each side of the ship had a  glass walkway on both sides of the deck with views down to water level. I don’t do well with heights, so walking on this was always a challenge, even though my brain told me it was just fine.

Sea Views Bar – another option for drinks while lounging in the pool or hot tubs.

Swirls Ice Cream – I could not resist a daily free soft serve chocolate or vanilla ice cream, or the bags of popcorn when watching Movies Under the Stars in the evening.

Horizon Court and Bistro buffet – the buffet area was huge with many, many choices for all tastes and dietary needs. Each day the chefs also presented regional dishes from a specific country (Italian, Mexican, German, Mongolian, etc.). The special cake event on the last sea day was quite impressive.

I traveled with a refillable water bottle and an insulated travel mug which I filled up at the buffet with water, iced tea, lemonade, hot tea, or coffee.

The Pastry Shop – tucked in the middle between the Horizon Court and the Horizon Bistro was where I went to look for self serve sweet treats. Each day gave me a diverse selection of cakes, cookies, puddings, and other delicious goodies. The fresh squeezed juice bar was located here as well and this was also another spot to get a specialty coffee.

Horizon Terrace and Outrigger’s Bar – aft of the buffet was a large, open deck area. I liked coming out here with my plate of food and watching the scenery go by as I ate. The bar staff were very good at bringing drinks as requested.

Deck 17 – Sun

Sanctuary – an adult only space that I had to reserve once I boarded the ship.

Retreat pool and bar – this was an intimate, adults only pool and hot tub area which I accessed from a door across from the forward lifts. This was a lovely place to lounge on warm, sunny days although it was quite popular and busy when the weather was nice.

Movies Under the Stars sitting area – a large screen above the Sky Pools where I watched movies and concerts. This was one of my favorite activities on the ship.

Hot tubs – there were two more hot tubs on the deck here, with views of Movies-Under-the Stars. There were also lots more lounge chairs for sunning.

Seawalk – peek down to water level if you dare.

Fitness Center – the place to go to work off all the calories from all that good food. I could walk for miles on a treadmill while looking out over the deep blue sea.

Camp Discovery and the Beach House Teen space – dedicated club areas for the younger set. The Beach House also had a dedicated outdoor deck space with a hot tub.

Terrace Pool – another small pool with deck space to relax and take in the aft views. There was also an outdoor smoking area here.

Deck 18 – Sports

Midship:  more deck area accessed by two sets of stairs.

Aft: this area could only be accessed by using stairs from deck 17.

Movies Under the Stars screen

J ogging track – if I walked   seven times around the track, that equaled one mile. This was also a good spot for unobstructed ocean views in all directions. 

Center court – a really big, netted, basketball or pickle ball court. Around the Center Court there was also a netted space with ping pong tables and a small netted driving range.

Deck 19 – Sky

Lawn court – a small putting green space that I could only access by  the stairs from the aft area of deck 18. There were golf clubs and golf balls that I could use to practice my putting skills on a bouncy ship.

Laundromats

For me, the self serve laundromats are one of the most useful features on a Princess ship. In the aft portion on each floor on decks 8 through 15, Princess put in a laundry room where I could wash a few quick loads midway through a long cruise.

The laundry room had a vending machine where I purchased tokens for the washing machines and dryers. I could also buy detergent, but I brought my own pods. There were also irons and ironing boards for guests’ use.

My Regal Princess itinerary around the British Isles

My only “complaint” about this cruise was that this was a very port heavy itinerary with only two sea days, so not as much free time to luxuriate in the ship’s amenities as I liked.

Day 1 – embarked in Southampton, departed 4:00 PM

Day 2 – Portland, England

Day 3 – Guernsey St. Peter Port, England

Day 4 – Cobh, Ireland

Day 5 – Dun Laoghaire, Ireland

Day 6 – Belfast, Northern Ireland

Day 7 – Greenock, Scotland

Day 8 – at sea (finally!)

Day 9 – Invergordon, Scotland

Day 10 – South Queensferry, Scotland

Day 11 – at sea (yippee!)

Day 12 – Le Havre, France

Day 13 – Disembarked in Southampton

I will describe all the port stops and what I did in each in a seperate post.

During this cruise we had two formal dress nights, and the rest were all smart casual dress.

Regal Princess excursion reviews

I booked my cruise last minute and planned on sightseeing in each of the ports on my own. However, once on board, I did end up booking a couple of excursions through Princess via the app on my phone. I also booked an excursion via an outside vendor. I will write all about this in a seperate post.

Regal Princess food review

I consider myself a bit of a foodie, but I also like a good burger and fries. I can honestly say that I had no trouble finding a meal that I liked, especially since I didn’t have to cook it. I took advantage of all of the dining options that were available to me, including the special Chef’s Table event.

At each location, the service was always very good and was delivered with a smile and with efficiency. I found all the wait staff to be extremely personable and eager to please.

I describe the many dining options on the Regal Princess in my post Dining Like a Princess – All the Regal Princess Dining Options Including the Chef’s Table Experience

Regal Princess entertainment review

I won’t write a lot about the entertainment since it changes from one cruise to another and will vary on the destination. I always enjoy the large production shows in the theater which showcases the talented musicians, singers, and dancers.

I also really loved the other musical performances in the theater. Since this sailing was from the UK, I was not surprised that my favorite Beatles cover duo, Just John and Paul , were on board for a few shows. I saw them for the first time on my Sky Princes cruise to Norway.

Throughout the day, there were often musical performances in the Piazza or in one of the bar areas. There were also plenty of other activities and on board entertainment as well throughout the day: trivia games, bingo, Voice of the Ocean, arts and crafts, etc. Each day’s Princess Patter had all the listings. One interesting activity that I found interesting was the behind the scenes tour of the kitchens.

One of my favorite aspects of a Princess cruise are the diverse Enrichment Lectures. Besides presentations about each of the destinations we were visiting, there were other lectures throughout the cruise. This time I learned all about the history of whiskey and about the songwriters from the 60’s. I especially liked that I could also watch these lectures on the TV in the comfort of my cabin.

Additional Regal Princess cruise tips and information

Princess cruise packages

Princess offers Standard, Plus, and Premium cruise fare packages. Before each cruise, I evaluate which package makes sense for me for that particular itinerary.  Princess Cruise Drinks Packages and Fare Packages – Which One Is Best?

The Medallion 

The Medallion is a waterproof, round electronic button that held all my personal Princess cruise information and also acted as my room key. I prefer to pick up my medallion at check in at the port and wear it through the cruise on a pretty, beaded lanyard that I purchased on Amazon. Princess also sells fancier Medallion accessories like chains and wristbands on board the ship.

The Medallion automatically unlocked my room once I was within about 3 feet of my cabin door. I also used it for any on board charges for drinks, excursions, etc. It also acted as my identification to get back on the ship after getting off in port.

Since I picked up my medallion at the port I was in the “blue” lane. It only took a few minutes longer to check in and I was still on board the ship in about 15 minutes after dropping off my bags.

After boarding the ship, I also had to check in to the muster station with my medallion.

The Princess App 

I downloaded the Princess App to my phone before leaving home and entered all the requested information.

Once I was on board, I could use the app to schedule specialty dinner reservations, order room service, order drinks to be delivered to my seat, look at the activities schedule, track and find members in my cruising party, and look at my bill.

Interactive On Board Screens

Near each elevator, there were large interactive screens displaying a map of the ship or the current activities going on throughout the ship. These touch screens were very easy and intuitive to use.

MedallionNet  WiFi

I always get one of the WiFi packages for the whole length of the cruise. Since Princess has switched to Starlink technology, the WiFi on board has worked very well and has been surprisingly fast. I never had any problem when trying to connect and work on my blog.

Travel Tip – I always put my phone to Airplane Mode before I leave port so that you I do not incur roaming charges. I call home via WiFi while I am at sea or text via WhatsApp.

Princess Patter

On my cruise, my cabin steward dropped off the Princess Patter every evening and it listed the following day’s activities and shows. The Journey View touch screen by each elevator and

also on the app had the same information.

The TV had a large selection of movies and TV shows. Besides watching movies or TV programs, and listening to music, I was also able to watch the enrichment lectures that had been presented at the theater. I also watched the safety video on the TV in my cabin when I first boarded.

I can see where the Ruby Princess is currently sailing through its bridge cam at https://www.princess.com/bridgecams/

As with my other Princess cruises, I really enjoyed this experience – both the ship and the various ports of call. There is no doubt that this Princess cruise made it very easy to explore a wide variety of destinations with minimal effort on my part.

To book a Princess cruise, find all the upcoming Regal Princess cruises, and to see the most recent cruise line deals I go directly to the Princess website .

Please note that I received a media upgraded cabin from Princess.  All content and opinions in this post are my own.

You can find all my cruising content on my  Experience-Cruising  page.

Other related Princess cruising stories:

A full transit through the Panama Cana: A Full Transit Panama Canal Cruise – Passing Through An Engineering Marvel

Alaska cruise excursion tips:   Alaska Cruise Excursion Tips to Inspire Your Best Alaska Trip

Detailed Majestic Princess review: My Most Memorable Princess Cruise – A Complete Majestic Princess Review With Photos

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Elite Platinum Lounge

By jamesnnb , January 24, 2018 in Princess Cruises

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We heard that the evening menu at the Elite Platinum Lounge has changed or will change in 2018. Has anyone seen this happen yet? We'll be on the Ruby Princess in Alaska in April.

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Share on other sites, ellensunny1.

I’m a Platinum passenger about to become Elite and have never heard of a lounge for us until reading these forums.

Are there advantages or perks in these lounges and which lounge is it on Regal pls.

Sent from my iPad using Forums

I’m a Platinum passenger about to become Elite and have never heard of a lounge for us until reading these forums. Are there advantages or perks in these lounges and which lounge is it on Regal pls.

There will be an card with the location and the list of the appetizers each night in your cabin upon boarding. Which there should have been on each cruise since you became Platinum; the Platinum/Elite/Suite lounge started as a perk around 2010 if memory serves.

What has changed recently is that instead of one nightly drink special there is now a set menu of drinks at a slightly lower price than elsewhere on the ship. But beware that the base to each drink is apparently from a huge batch of pre-mix; in November on Royal Princess when the server saw I had the PBP he said "I'll get you a real Mojito" (or whatever I ordered).

The nightly appetizer was the same as in the past; on my five night cruise there was no sushi night though, but the formal night was still the shrimp tower. One other change is that the crudites (carrots, celery, olives) are portioned out rather than help-yourself; the cheese and crackers are still select what you wish.

On Regal Princess they should use Club 6, every night from 5PM to 7 PM except the night of the Captain's Circle party.

There will be an card with the location and the list of the appetizers each night in your cabin upon boarding. Which there should have been on each cruise since you became Platinum; the Platinum/Elite/Suite lounge started as a perk around 2010 if memory serves.  

Often the card gets overlooked since it is mixed in with a number of other printed materials on embarkation day.

If, however, you do not receive the card, just ask the CC rep for one.

Yes it changed. Now $6,50 instead of $5.00.

Changed the drinks to from the ones people liked to

different kinds. Most don't like them. Some do I'm sure.

You don't have to buy a drink to eat the food.

Each night a new appetizer but others foods stay the same

Often the card gets overlooked since it is mixed in with a number of other printed materials on embarkation day.   If, however, you do not receive the card, just ask the CC rep for one.

Or mention it to your cabin steward and he/she will get one for you. If you catch him/her in the corridor, and the room care cart is parked there, he/she will probably have one available for you right away.

I’m a Platinum passenger about to become Elite and have never heard of a lounge for us until reading these forums. Are there advantages or perks in these lounges and which lounge is it on Regal pls. Sent from my iPad using Forums

The Vista Lounge.

Watch the info that is left for you in your cabin and get there early

It is still one of our favorite places to have a cocktail or two before dinner. The setting is different depending on the class of ship, so it could be in Club 6 on the Royal class ships, Skywalkers on the Grand/Caribbean/Emerald/etc. or one of the lounges on the other ships.

We enjoy meeting new people and have developed continuing friendships. What we don't enjoy is the way the lounge has evolved into a "bean-counters" area where the appetizers have been reduced and the drinks have increased in price while removing the classic favorites from the menu of those that have the special of the day price. The number of people in the lounge tends to reduce during the cruise because of this in the opinion of the bar staff.

Can you use the PBP in the lounge?

Let me add that we skipped this for the 1st time in a doz+ cruises. We don't like the new drinks. We enjoyed free drinks on our balcony from the mini bar. If they bring back the old selection we go back. Did miss the chit chat before dinner. We walked through several times and it seemed like it was a poor turnout for a cruise with 1200 that were qualified to attend.

nukesubsailor

The Vista Lounge. Watch the info that is left for you in your cabin and get there early     Captains Circle Shrimp Party   Howard

The Platinum/Elite/Suite lounge on the Regal Princess is held in Club 6. This is a different event from the Captains' Circle party event that is held in the big lounge at the aft end of deck 7.

Does anyone recall what the 'new' drink selection consists of?

daydreamer16

On the Regal now, there are about 8-10 drinks for $6.50.

Mayan Mule, like a Moscow mule but with tequila, Mojito, a blue Martini, and some other very sweet sounding drinks. For 50 cents more I can have Absolute on the rocks! Really miss the old drinks, especially the Chairman of the Board!

Please tell my wife the Mojito is not from a mix...:cool:

On the Royal's December 10 cruise, the event was held in the Vista Lounge due to the number of Platinum and Elite passengers. I'm hoping that next month on Royal it will be in Club 6.

No Chairman of the Board? Say it isn't so!!!

reedprincess

On one of our Regal sailings, PES event was held in Vista Lounge due to number of PE onboard (suite amounts don't change obviously).

On another Regal sailing, it was in Club 6.

Same goes for Royal, either Club 6 or Vista Lounge depending in how many Elite and Platinums onboard...

Only way I know of to get a Chairman is to go to Crooners. Even there, it's not on the menu, but if you ask for it they'll make it ... for $9.50.

Thx so much for the info. I’m finding out there’s so much more to learn. [emoji4] Hmmmm What’s a “Chairman of the board”.

Mo_Cruising

A Chairman of the Board is a shot each of Vodka, Gin and Cointreau - have one or two and you may forget to go to dinner....

Chairman of the Board is still on the cocktail menus - the ones that list Vodka Cocktsils, Gin Cocktails, Rum Cocktails, etc. Under Gin page, under Gin martinis at the bottom... Listed with the Vespa, 007 Classic Tanqueray, Very Berry, etc.

Had it made at Mermaid's Bar on pool deck, Crooner's, Club 6, etc - basically all around the ship on Royal...

I have never bothered to go to the Elite Cocktail Party. I get enough food on the ship without having to attend this "party" for a limited selection of appetizers. But I also skip the Captain's Cocktail Party, the Champagne Waterfall, ...

Only way I know of to get a Chairman is to go to Crooners. Even there, it's not on the menu, but if you ask for it they'll make it ... for $9.50.   Jim

If you go to the Captains Circle Party you can ask for a Chairman of the Board when they offer you the rum punch or cheap ship champagne. It might take 5 minutes, but they will bring it. Worth the wait.

Thanks for the valuable information! $9.50 x 2 = 19.00 (Plus, no tip).

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Princess cruise food: The ultimate guide to restaurants and dining on board

B ooked on a Princess cruise ? Then it's time to start figuring out your dining strategy. With everything from casual seafood shacks and barbecue joints to refined steakhouses, sushi bars and even experiential, sensory dining, the food on Princess Cruises has something to pique everyone's palate, from those looking to indulge to guests who want to stick to a healthy diet at sea .

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Alfredo's/Gigi's Pizzeria by Alfredo/Alfredo's Pizzeria

Fixed price or a la carte

If one pizzeria isn't enough, Princess has another option. Alfredo's and Gigi's are sit-down pizzerias with decor inspired by the colors and vibe of Amalfi Coast. The venues serve authentic Neapolitan pizza made from scratch.

Available on: Coral, Diamond, Discovery, Enchanted, Grand, Island, Majestic, Regal, Royal, Sapphire, Sky, Sun Princess

Related: Which line has the best cruise pizza? I tasted slices from 7 brands

Burger & Hot Dog Grill

Included, but a la carte pricing applies for a few menu items on select ships

This poolside American grill serves up hamburgers, hot dogs and french fries.

Available on: Coral, Diamond, Island, Majestic, Regal, Royal, Sapphire

Chopsticks Noodle Bar

Chopsticks is a casual spot with a rotating menu of cooked-to-order Asian fare. Options include wonton noodle soup and wok-fried dishes like Sichuan dan-dan noodles.

Available on: Majestic Princess

Horizon Court/World Fresh Marketplace

All Princess cruise ships feature a buffet restaurant, called World Fresh Marketplace on some ships and Horizon Court on others. Either way, the buffet is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The ever-changing options include regional specialties, comfort food, fresh fruit, salads, vegetables and desserts.

Available on: All ships

Related: Cruise ship buffet taboos: 10 things you should never do at mealtime

Sushi and sashimi specialties, appetizers, nigiri and maki rolls including tempura shrimp, spicy tuna and hamachi scallion are available separately or in a set menu or combination at Kai Sushi.

Available on: Diamond Princess, Sun Princess

Main dining room

Princess Cruises' main dining rooms offer a waiter-served, sit-down dining experience. Multicourse menus of global cuisine are offered for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Some options change daily, but a selection of "Princess Favorites" signature dishes is always available.

Ocean Terrace Sushi/Seafood Bar

Overlooking the Piazza, this sushi and sashimi bar was inspired by the view of the ocean. Starters, sushi, sashimi, raw, cooked and torched rolls are available a la carte.

Available on: Discovery, Enchanted, Regal, Royal, Sky Princess

O'Malley's Irish Pub

A contemporary Irish pub with traditional tunes and interactive entertainment, O'Malley's serves pub fare like pan-fried Guinness chicken, ribeye burgers, Scotch eggs and fried pickles.

Available on: Enchanted Princess, Sun Princess

This casual, rustic eatery serves ample portions of barbecued meats, including pulled pork, tri-top, smoked sausage, smoked chicken and pork ribs, along with sides, sauces, salads and more.

Available on: Caribbean Princess, Emerald Princess

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Reserve Collection dining

Included for guests in Reserve Collection cabins

Passengers booked in Reserve Collection cabins can access an exclusive area of the main dining room with a private entrance, expedited seating, no reservations required and a dedicated waitstaff. On Star Princess and Sun Princess, Reserve Collection Dining also includes access to a private restaurant.

Salty Dog Gastropub

The Salty Dog Gastropub features handhelds like burgers, chicken sandwiches and grilled cheese, as well as elevated takes on comfort food including lobster mac and cheese and stout-braised short ribs. It's located inside the Wheelhouse Bar on certain days.

Available on: Crown, Discovery, Emerald, Ruby Princess, Sapphire, Grand, Coral, Island Princess

Salty Dog Grille/Cafe

The famous Hilton Head, South Carolina eatery takes to the seas on Princess Cruises. This casual poolside restaurant is a great pitstop between dips. Order from their menu of craft burgers (including a veggie burger), sandwiches, chicken strips, street tacos, loaded fries and hot dogs.

Available on: Caribbean, Crown, Discovery, Emerald, Enchanted, Grand, Ruby, Sky Princess

Related: Which line has the best cruise burger? Here are TPG's top picks

This poolside pizzeria has plenty of pie options, including thin crust and deep dish, as well as stromboli and avocado and caprese toasts.

Steamers Seafood

At this casual eatery, you can satisfy your seafood craving with steamed shellfish pots with mussels, scallops, kielbasa and corn on the cob. The most popular pot arrives with broiled scallops, shrimp and crab-stuffed flounder; lobster and crab can be added to any dish.

Vines Wine Bar

Located in the Atrium, with an extensive list of wines and Champagnes, Vines Wine Bar serves light bites, including antipasti and tapas.

Available on: Caribbean, Crown, Emerald, Grand, Majestic, Regal, Royal, Ruby, Sapphire, Sky Princess

Bayou Cafe & Steakhouse

Fixed price

Prime steaks and seafood are served in a laid-back, New Orleans-inspired setting, with live music on select nights. Highlights include Chilean sea bass with king prawns, New York strip and New Zealand rosemary double lamb chops.

Available on: Coral Princess, Island Princess

Related: The best cruise ship steakhouses and steak-serving restaurants

The Catch by Rudi

Seafood-focused collaboration with renowned Austrian chef Rudi Sodamin featuring playful takes on sustainable seafood like Asian-fried calamari, lobster with garlic butter crust and tiered shellfish towers. Order the Salzburger Nockerl for dessert; it's a can't-miss Austrian souffle baked over tangy fruit jam.

Available on: Discovery, Enchanted, Majestic, Sky, Sun Princess

Churrascaria Brazilian Grill

Servers carve grilled meats including picanha, sirloin, lamb, linguica and sausage tableside at this South American-inspired steakhouse. Round out your meal with options from the teeming salad bar.

Available on: Diamond Princess

A rustic seafood pop-up, Crab Shack will serve casual starters including popcorn shrimp and Manhattan clam chowder, as well as steamed and boiled pots of shellfish, potatoes, corn and herbs.

Available on: Forthcoming, ships to be announced

Crown Grill

Princess' signature steak and seafood house with a theater-style open kitchen is a perennial favorite with guests. On the menu are aged and hand-cut steaks and chops, seafood and a selection of salts curated from around the world to sprinkle on dishes.

Available on: Caribbean, Crown, Discovery, Emerald, Enchanted, Grand, Majestic, Regal, Royal, Ruby, Sky, Sun Princess

Related: 7 reasons you should treat yourself to a cruise ship specialty restaurant

Harmony is a contemporary Chinese restaurant with a five-course menu of dishes. Highlights include Peking duck salad, braised pork belly ribs with star anise and fried rice with scallops.

Sabatini's Italian Trattoria

At the cruise line's signature Italian restaurant, traditional flavors meld with regional influences. Handmade pastas like pappardelle alla Bolognese are joined by ossobuco Milanese, heirloom cheeses and air-cured salume.

Available on: Caribbean, Coral, Crown, Diamond, Discovery, Emerald, Enchanted, Grand, Island, Regal, Royal, Ruby, Sapphire, Sky, Sun Princess

Sterling Steakhouse

This premium chophouse features high-quality cuts of meat from corn-fed beef, including Kansas City strip, filet mignon, Madeira-glazed veal and surf and turf, served with shareable sides like loaded baked potatoes and sauteed wild mushrooms. (Sterling Steakhouse is similar to the Crown Grill, but the two steakhouses have different menus.)

Available on: Sapphire Princess

Love by Britto

Princess Cruises has collaborated with Romero Britto, the Brazilian artist known for his bold and joyful style, to create a seven-course, prix fixe artistic-inspired dining experience on its newest ship. Standout dishes include oysters with Champagne pearls, Wagyu Chateaubriand Rossini and hot chocolate souffle with hot Bing cherries.

Available on: Sun Princess

Umai Teppanyaki

Your meal at Umai Teppanyaki is a three-act show of Japanese cuisine prepared on an iron teppan grill. Starters include pork belly yakitori and spicy tuna on the rocks, followed by dishes like black cod in soy reduction and filet mignon with Champagne Cognac flambe and a chocolate bento box.

Related: 12 dining mistakes you must fix on your next cruise

The Butcher's Block by Dario

The Butcher's Block is another collaboration, this time a partnership with renowned eighth-generation butcher Dario Cecchini, who owns a butcher shop and restaurants in the Tuscan village of Panzano, Italy. Enjoy a meal of his signature cuts of meat at one large shared table with friends old and new.

360: An Extraordinary Experience

This seven-course, wine-paired dinner is enhanced by immersive technology, including a 360-degree projection screen displaying scenes of the Mediterranean and additional images projected onto the tabletop. You'll find yourself as captivated by the food as the music and storytelling that will virtually transport you to Santorini, the Amalfi Coast, Barcelona and Provence. The dining experience is invite-only, so if you're not some kind of VIP (suite guest, top-tier loyalty program member, casino high roller and the like), don't expect you will be able to dine here.

Available on: Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess

Chef's Table/Chef's Table Lumiere

Fixed price (with or without wine)

The Chef's Table is a unique culinary experience that kicks off with Champagne and hors d'oeuvres and a stroll through the kitchen to meet the executive chef, followed by a multicourse dinner paired with wines. For Chef's Table Lumiere, the table is surrounded by a curtain of lights after guests are seated.

Available on: Caribbean, Coral, Crown, Diamond, Emerald, Grand, Island, Ruby, Sapphire Princess (Chef's Table); Discovery, Enchanted, Majestic, Regal, Royal, Sky Princess (Chef's Table Lumiere)

Balcony Breakfast/Dinner

Start or end the day with an intimate, romantic meal for two served on your cabin balcony. Dinner is a four-course affair including hors d'oeuvres, lobster and steak and your choice of beverages.

Caymus Winemaker's Dinner

During this intimate dining event, a five-course dinner is paired with wines from Chuck Wagner's Napa Valley winery, Caymus Vineyards. This recently launched experience for just 12 guests is offered two to three times per sailing.

Silverado Winemaker's Dinner

A collaboration with winemaker Jon Emmerich of Silverado Vineyards, this dinner pairs five courses (not including a palate cleanser) with the Napa Valley winery's sauvignon blanc and cabernet sauvignon.

Available on: Discovery, Enchanted, Majestic, Regal, Royal, Sky Princess

Princess cruise dining FAQ

Is food on princess cruises included.

Sit-down meals in the main dining room, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, are always included on a Princess cruise, and the menu varies somewhat daily. Also included is a buffet, either called World Fresh Marketplace or Horizon Court, depending on the ship, as well as fast casual and grab-and-go spots on board that serve pizza, tacos, burgers, pastries and ice cream.

Specialty restaurants including Crown Grill, Princess's steak and seafood house, and Sabatini's, the signature Italian restaurant, require a surcharge that's priced at a flat rate per adult or child; some menu items also require an additional surcharge no matter the age of the guest.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises ships and itineraries

Are drinks included on Princess cruise ships?

Select beverages are always included: iced tea, hot tea, brewed coffee, hot chocolate, milk, fruit juice, lemonade and tap water. Everything else, including soft drinks, wine, beer, cocktails, spirits and specialty coffees, must either be purchased a la carte or through one of the cruise line's beverage packages .

Do I need reservations?

Reservations are encouraged for the main dining room and the specialty restaurants, and it's best to make them as early as possible ; walk-in parties will be accommodated on a space-available basis. Guests can make reservations via the Princess MedallionClass app or at guest services once you're on board. If you wish to eat at the same time every night, you can do so by reserving your tables in advance.

Platinum and Elite Captain's Circle members have early access to reservations. Passengers booked in a Full Suite or Reserve Collection Mini-Suite don't need to make dining reservations as they will always be accommodated; they also have access to a dedicated space in the main dining room with expedited seating and an expanded menu.

Does Princess Cruises have an evening dress code?

"Smart casual" attire will be appropriate for the main dining room, buffet and fast-casual restaurants. You might want to pack something dressier for the specialty restaurants or one of the more upscale dining experiences like Chef's Table, 360 or a winemaker dinner.

On sailings that are five nights or longer, there will be one or more formal nights, which do require adhering to a dress code in the dining venues . Cocktail dresses, evening gowns or dressy pantsuits are appropriate for women, while dark suits, tuxedos or dinner jackets and slacks are required for men , along with dressy footwear. If you don't want to dress up or forgot appropriate attire, you're welcome to dine at the buffet or any of the other casual dining options on board during formal night.

Is there assigned seating in the main dining room?

There is no assigned seating at any dining venues on board Princess ships. However, if you are a solo diner or part of a couple or small group, your host might ask if you would like to sit with another party of a similar size in the main dining room; the choice is up to you.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

You can use the Cruise Personalizer to indicate your dietary preferences, including requests for low-sodium, low-fat, low-sugar and vegetarian diets. Kosher meals and baby food are available with advanced written requests. If you have allergies or medical needs related to food, you must inform Princess in writing — check the line's website for more details. Princess Cruises also recently introduced a series of vegan menus for dinner in the main dining room, including starters, soups, salads, pastas and main dishes.

Where can I get snacks on board?

You'll find lots of spots to grab a quick bite, dessert or coffee, including Coffee & Cones, Patisserie, Swirls Ice Cream Bar, The Pastry Shop, International Cafe and Gelateria — options vary depending on the ship. Food at these venues is included, but there is a charge for specialty coffees and teas unless you have a beverage package.

Is room service included on Princess Cruises?

Guests can use the designated button on their cabin's phone to order room service 24 hours a day; each order incurs a $5 delivery fee, which is waived for those with Princess Plus or Princess Premier status.

You can also use the OceanNow feature in the Princess Medallion Class app to order food to be delivered to your cabin or anywhere else on the ship, like the pool deck. This feature is included with Princess Plus and Princess Premium; otherwise, there is a one-time access fee of $14.99 per person per voyage and a $5 delivery fee per order. Food and beverage surcharges may apply for some items ordered via room service.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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• Caribbean Cruises

10 Best Cruises to Jamaica and the Caribbean

Enjoy the island spirit on a cruise to the land of reggae and rum.

Oceania Cruises

Jamaica is one of the most popular Caribbean destinations, and if you've ever lounged on one of the island's gorgeous beaches with a fruit-filled rum punch in hand, it's easy to understand why. It helps that Jamaica is extremely accessible. You can fly there (direct from New York City in four hours, at that), but many prefer the experience of island hopping onboard a Caribbean cruise.

The major cruise ports of Jamaica are Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Falmouth, and Kingston. On the northeastern coast, there's also Port Antonio, which isn't suitable for most large ships but attracts boutique cruise lines and private yachts.

Whether you're interested in discovering pirate history, hiking through the rainforest to see waterfalls, or searching for the best jerk chicken on the island, you're bound to find a cruise itinerary that suits you. Explore some of the best cruises to Jamaica. And don't forget to check for seasonal festivals that take place at each port.

Viking Ocean Cruises

Alastair Miller/Viking Cruises

This 14-night round-trip cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, stops in seven countries. The ship sails the Caribbean for two days before making its first stop in Montego Bay, Jamaica. There cruise-goers can hike the rain forest, visit Dunn's River Falls, or ride a bamboo raft down the Great River, among other excursions. The cruise offers activities for foodies, thrill seekers, history buffs, and beach bums.

After departing Montego Bay, the ship sails the Caribbean and Panama Canal for two days before making its next stop at Colón, Panama. Visit Indigenous villages or take a walk around the colorful city. The following stops — Puerto Limón, Costa Rica; Roatán, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; and Cozumel, Mexico — showcase the Caribbean's lushest landscapes, ancient Mayan ruins, pristine beaches, and lively towns.

Between ports, a historian lectures on pirates and treasure hunters, pre-Columbian civilizations, and the Age of Discovery aboard the 930-guest Viking Mars . When you aren't attending a lesson, you can book a treatment at the Nordic spa, catch a live performance in the theater, or order a martini in the Explorers' Lounge.

Carnival Cruise Line

Aboard the Carnival Sunrise, cruisers depart from Miami for a five-night trip . Spend the first day at sea before arriving at Grand Cayman. On the island, you can visit a rum cake factory or go snorkeling. After leaving the Cayman Islands, the ship moves on to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, where excursions include driving through woodlands in a dune buggy among other options. The ship then spends another day at sea before arriving back in Miami.

Onboard dining options include a steakhouse, an Italian restaurant, Guy's (as in Guy Fieri's) Burger Joint, a barbecue spot, a cantina, and a sushi joint. Adults can find a quiet spot in the 21-and-up Serenity Retreat, or they can get together in a pub, lounge, or piano bar.

For kids, Seuss at Sea provides a character parade, interactive story time, themed breakfasts, and crafting sessions. Meanwhile, Camp Ocean offers supervised activities like games, dancing, movies, video games, and kids-only meals.

Travel from Panama City to Miami on Oceania Cruises' Sirena , stopping along the South American coast along the way. After a day of sailing through the Panama Canal, the first stop of this 10-day cruise is Cartagena, Colombia. Here, guests can hop off the ship to see mansions and a historic fort. The following day is dedicated to Santa Marta, Colombia's oldest city.

The ship then visits Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curacao; and Kralendijk, Bonaire, before turning its bow to the north toward Florida. After a day of sailing the Caribbean, the ship drops anchor at Port Antonio, Jamaica, the gateway to Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park . Guests get a chance to hike, swim, and explore the town square for a day before sailing the Atlantic. A day trip in The Bahamas' capital, Nassau, is the perfect penultimate stop before you reach your final destination, Miami.

Stay entertained while at sea with the pool, theater, casino, and spa. Guests can also visit a wide variety of restaurants or enjoy an afternoon tea service.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean

Depart Orlando for a six-night, round-trip cruise that kicks off with a day at sea. In Labadee, Haiti, the first stop, guests can enjoy plenty of beach time and even zip line over the ocean. From there, the ship travels to Falmouth, Jamaica, located between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. Choose from excursions like river tubing, swimming at the Blue Hole, or sample and learn about Jamaican coffee. Another option outside of tours is the Artisan Village which easily connects Jamaican artists and their work to cruisers.

With another day at sea, travelers can enjoy the spa, fitness center, live performances, kids' activities, and a variety of restaurants aboard the Adventure of the Seas . Fill a day at Royal Caribbean's private Bahamian CocoCay at Thrill Waterpark, where you can ride down North America's tallest waterslide, or Coco Beach Club, which features an overwater cabana. The cay is also home to Chill Island, a beach "neighborhood" where you'll find quiet relaxation, cabana rentals, and restaurants. The next morning, the ship arrives back in Orlando.

Disney Cruise Line

David Rourke/Disney Cruise Line

Consider taking a tour of the Kennedy Space Center before boarding the Disney Fantasy in Cape Canaveral. The first full day of this seven-night cruise is spent at sea, but pools, a spa, kids' clubs, restaurants, games, and entertainment provide much to do on the way to Cozumel, Mexico. There, guests can snorkel or dive among coral reefs, shop for handmade souvenirs, and relax on the beach.

The next port is George Town on Grand Cayman, where you can explore the botanical gardens, swim at Seven Mile Beach, or visit the town's shops and restaurants. In Falmouth, Jamaica, the next day, optional activities include a zip-line adventure, waterfall hike, or Good Hope Estate. Enjoy the ship's amenities while cruising to Disney Castaway Cay.

On this private island, guests will find a water play area, a white-sand beach, walking trails, a snorkeling lagoon, boat rentals, a teen hideout, and adults-only Serenity Bay. Don't forget to check into other Disney Cruise tips and secrets before you go. The ship sails overnight to arrive in Port Canaveral for disembarkation.

Celebrity Cruises

Michel Verdure/Celebrity Cruises

Departing from Fort Lauderdale, a six-night cruise onboard the Celebrity Apex makes its way to The Bahamas for its first port-of-call, CocoCay. Visitors can take a dip in the Caribbean's largest freshwater pool, get a different perspective from a hot air balloon, or order a drink from the swim-up bar.

The next port of call, the historic town of Falmouth, Jamaica, has a wide range of activities. Take a trip to the Green Grotto Caves and Dunn's River Falls or raft along Martha Brae River. In George Town on Grand Cayman, guests can shop, go on a catamaran cruise, snorkel, or sample the island's cuisine, including conch.

With two days spent at sea, the third and sixth days, guests have time to enjoy the ship's restaurants, casino, cocktail lounges, and entertainment.

MSC Cruises

Ivan Sarfatti/MSC Cruises

The Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) offers a well-rounded 14-night itinerary aboard the MSC Divina , which departs and returns to Miami. While this voyage visits eight countries, there's a total of five days at sea. That means guests will have plenty of downtime to rest and enjoy the ship. Onboard the elegant ship, cruisers will find a casino, a spa, kids' and teens' clubs, restaurants, and bars.

The first stop is the Bahamian capital, Nassau, where guests can kick off their two-week vacation with a VIP cabana experience on Blue Lagoon Island. The ship returns to Miami for a day before continuing on to Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

In Ocho Rios, you can swim in the sparkling iris Blue Hole or climb to the top of Konoko Falls. Next up is Oranjestad, Aruba where travelers take in the turquoise waters of Arashi Beach or learn about aloe farming at the Aruba Aloe Museum & Factory .

Subsequent ports include Cartagena, Colombia, a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets and pastel-colored buildings; Colón, Panama; and Puerto Limón, Costa Rica. In Colón, experience Emberá culture up the Chagres River or see sloths and tropical birds near Gatún Lake. Take the day in Puerto Limón to explore the jungle, looking for crocodiles, monkeys, and manatees.

Following a day ashore on the Honduran island of Roatán, Honduras, the ship turns north once again toward Miami.

Holland America Line

SeanPavonePhoto/Getty Images

Spend three weeks sailing turquoise waters with Holland America Line . The cruise includes a total of five days at sea, meaning there is plenty of downtime to enjoy the ship without getting cabin fever. Throughout the round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, guests visit 11 countries throughout both the eastern and western corners of the Caribbean.

After setting sail from Florida, Eurodam first turns westward toward the Bahamas, Jamaica, Honduras, Belize, and Mexico. Ports include Half Moon Bay Falmouth, Roatán, Belize City, and Cozumel. The ship then turns north to return to Fort Lauderdale, with a stop in Key West along the way, before making its way to the eastern Caribbean.

The second half of the cruise visits Philipsburg, Saint Maarten; St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda; Fort-De-France, Martinique; Roseau, Dominica; Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis; and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Guests can enjoy one more visit to Half Moon Bay in the Bahamas before returning to Fort Lauderdale for disembarkation.

Excursions, while an additional fee, include snorkeling, nature walks, visits to Mayan ruins, zip line adventures, boating to secluded beaches, and even walking underwater for a scuba-like experience without needing certification.

On board the ship, spend time relaxing with a spa treatment, getting active playing pickleball, or listening to a live performance.

Explora Journeys

MarcioDufranc/Getty Images

Setting off on a 10-night round-trip voyage from Miami, the Explora II sails for a day on its way to Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Onboard, guests can enjoy their ocean-view suites, nine restaurants, or four pools. Of course, there is also a luxurious spa, live entertainment, and high-end shopping such as Cartier and Rolex.

In Ocho Rios, music aficionados should visit Nine Mile, where Bob Marley began his career and is now buried. Spend another day at sea en route to the Honduran island of Roatán. There, tour the Roatán Rum Company and enjoy trying a few dishes to experience the island's culture.

Next up is Belize City, Belize. Here, a chocolate farm and the first jaguar reserve are just two of many exciting options — including the Great Blue Hole . The ship then spends several days circumnavigating Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.

Ports include Cozumel and Progreso. Off the coast of Cozumel, divers can visit a Mesoamerican reef. Alternatively, guests can head inland to swim in cenotes. Mayan culture is prominent in Progreso thanks to sites that have been immaculately preserved such as Chichén Itzá, one of the seven new wonders of the world . Spend a last day onboard, sailing north, for disembarkation in Miami.

Princess Cruises

hzechphotography/Getty Images

Many cruises leave from ports in Florida, but this 10-night Princess cruise embarks in the Gulf of Mexico from Galveston, Texas. Aboard the Regal Princess , guests will visit five countries and spend four days at sea making this a well-balanced itinerary. Enjoy the ship's amenities including seven restaurants, cooking demonstrations, a relaxing massage at the spa, or join a Pure Barre class.

The ship starts southward with its first stops including Cozumel, Mexico; Roatán, Honduras; and Belize City, Belize. Following a day at sea, the cruise continues on to Montego Bay, Jamaica, and Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. The ship then cruises back to Galveston for disembarkation.

Colorful Cozumel offers cruise-goers great shopping and access to Mayan ruins while Roatán offers adrenaline-pumping activities like zip lining. Those who can't get enough of snorkeling will find ample opportunity among the Belize Barrier Reef, Montego Bay, and off the coast of Grand Cayman's Seven Mile Beach. In fact, Belize and the Cayman Islands are among the best snorkeling destinations in the world . So, be prepared to rent (or pack your own) mask and fins.

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I cruised on the discovery princess, here’s my review of the voyage.

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When some think of cruises, a picture of cheesy, matching family T-shirts comes to mind. Perhaps you think of long lines at the buffet and loop-de-loop water slides that never seem to end on the lido deck. For some, this image isn’t relaxing, but not all ships are created equal.

The lovely Discovery Princess , the second newest cruise ship among Princess Cruises’ fleet, is one of the most elegant I’ve voyaged on — and I’ve been on 10+ cruises (read: best cruises I reviewed ). So, you can say I’ve become quite the cruise critic over the years.

While each cruise ship has something unique to offer, I can honestly say my experience setting sail on the Discovery Princess was my favorite cruise yet.

RELATED : Princess unveils its new Sun Princess ship

As part of the itinerary’s Pacific Wine Country Tour for an April 2024 sailing, I embarked from the Los Angeles port in San Pedro, CA and then traveled to San Diego; San Francisco; Astoria, OR; and Victoria and Vancouver, Canada. The best part was experiencing Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley on one of Princess Cruises’ excursions, but more on that later.

To assemble an in-depth review of my experience, I divided this piece into a few sections: who it’s good for, activities and entertainment, food and drink options, excursions and special features. Consider this your all-in-one guide. After all, I did plenty of research myself — a discovery , if you will — via YouTube videos, Discovery Princess Facebook groups and by way of the easy-to-use Princess app. Not to mention, since I’ve cruised on other lines, including Carnival, Celebrity, NCL and Royal Caribbean, you’ll find some comparison notes as well.

Even better, this cruise vacation was with my high school best friend, Veronica, who has never been aboard a cruise ship. It was such a unique experience seeing all that Discovery Princess had to offer with her first-time perspective, which is infused within this review as well.

Who it’s good for

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Most cruise lines are designed for whatever you’d like your vacation to be, whether it’s solo travel, couples traveling, a best friend cruise (I’m representing this demographic here) and family trips. Aboard Discovery Princess, I even saw a 20+ family reunion. The possibilities are endless, and some sailings may yield older or younger demographics depending on the itinerary, length of the cruise and other factors.

Veronica and I are both in our early 20s, and we found the Discovery Princess to cater to an older crowd, as we saw many middle- and senior-aged couples. However, we scouted a handful of young adult couples, just not nearly as many as you’d find on more “ family-friendly ” cruise lines, like Carnival and Royal Caribbean.

However, this isn’t a dealbreaker in the slightest. A cruise is what you make of it, and we enjoyed trying top-of-the-line specialty restaurants, heading to Broadway-production-style shows, booking excursions for each port we docked at and relaxing in the Lotus Spa , the latter being a true R&R highlight. Pro tip: pick up a Miami Vice or your favorite cocktail at one of Discovery’s bars before heading to The Enclave, the spa’s modern, state-of-the-art relaxation centers with a jet pool, two different sauna rooms and heated lounge chairs. You definitely won’t be sorry.

Because Discovery Princess was my first trip with Princess Cruises, I can’t speak if the slightly older clientele is characteristic of the cruise line at large or this specific itinerary. Granted, it was a wine-centric itinerary at the end of April, so I wasn’t expecting to see many passengers younger than 21-years-old on each deck. Additionally, we didn’t sail in peak summertime months when school’s out and more family vacations may take place.

While I certainly remember way more families aboard other cruise lines, that’s not to say Princess isn’t family-friendly. There’s a variety of entertainment options, which you’ll find on the stateroom patter (otherwise known as a printed itinerary) each evening, placed at the foot of your bed by a stateroom attendant. Or, you can follow along on the Princess app.

Activities and entertainment

One of the highlights from the Discovery Princess ship is, without question, the activities and entertainment that I’d say is world-class. I grew up going to theaters, Broadway shows and local productions and it was clear as day that the variety of shows featured well-versed actors, performers, dancers, singers and a legitimate crew to put together the lighting, choreography and the entire setup from start to finish.

If heading to shows isn’t entirely your thing, that’s OK, too; Discovery Princess had a multitude of game shows, comedians, dance and deck parties (sometimes, dance parties on the deck), trivia and more. Below, I ran through some of the activities and entertainment options Veronica and I experienced during our April 2024 sailing:

Production Shows at Princess Theater

One of the most memorable experiences aboard Discovery Princess was heading to the Production Shows during the eight-day cruise. Show times and type may vary depending on the sailing, though you can expect two Production-level shows. These mimic the vibe exuded on Broadway.

Aboard Discovery, I went to the “Spotlight Bar” show, where the full cast sang radio, sing-along hits in front of a bar scene. The group dances and individual ballads were nothing short of phenomenal. As much as I loved watching the first Production-level show, I adored the “Rock Opera” show, a fusion of 80s rock with opera-style performances. Think: “The Greatest Showman” meets Cyndi Lauper. The costumes, set and overall segue from song to song was unparalleled; I didn’t want it to end.

Additionally, Princess Cruises has two show times for its Production-level shows: one at 7:30 p.m. and another at 9:30 p.m. This works out well, that way you have options to work around your dinner reservations or late-night activities, like the after-hours comedian or DJ.

Aside from Production Shows at Princess Theater, there were two to three other shows performed by soloists Willis White and Nick Petris who paid homage to music icons Lionel Richie and Michael Bublé, respectively. Both were excellent and entertaining. Princess Theater also hosted a magician one night, though we didn’t attend.

Game Shows at Princess Live!

Another sit-back-and-relax moment aboard Discovery was the schedule of game shows from the first to last evening on the cruise. Sometimes, game shows can be corny, but the Princess crew truly knew how to entertain.

Veronica and I attended a few, including “Top, Middle or Bottom” where passengers took turns selecting Jeopardy-style tiles and either passing through to the next column (a checkmark), receiving one of three X-es (a firecracker symbol) or a trivia question (a question mark). It was a pretty suspenseful guessing game and one that kept us pretty entertained.

Another game show we attended one evening was called “Majority Rules,” where we’d answer somewhat controversial questions like, “Who’s the best female singer?” or “What’s the greatest film of all time?” As the name suggests, the majority rules, and each “team” tallies up their points to crown the ultimate victor.

The vibe of the game shows was the perfect after-dinner activity. Many cruisers sat in armchairs with a drink in hand, just relaxing and enjoying the atmosphere. The best part? Most game shows were hosted by the cruise director. Kristoff, if you’re reading this, we love you .

Comedy Shows at Vista Lounge (nicknamed “Laugh Lounge”)

For fans of stand-up comedy, Discovery hosted quite a few comedy shows, divided among three comedians on my particular sailing. These shows were hosted at Vista Lounge, a sophisticated and snazzy venue space, though the backdrop transforms into a brick-style background with a neon “Laugh Lounge” sign in cursive, apropos of the crew’s production team.

Some comedians starred on Comedy Central and popular Late Night shows and had us laughing to no end. Whether it’s your first cruise or you’re a four-times-a-year cruiser, the banter and jokes made about cruising pet peeves is witty, relatable and entertaining.

Most of all, I loved the variety of comedians aboard Discovery. On a previous Carnival cruise, there was only one comedian who, although was great at improv comedy and picking on audience members, didn’t inspire me to see all seven of his shows. The comedians aboard Discovery were proof that live entertainment on this ship is purely unforgettable.

The Dance Competition

Slightly hidden on the itinerary, the Princess Dance Competition allows passengers and crew members to be selected at random in the cruise’s version of “Dancing with the Stars.” Spoiler alert: this was one of my favorite moments from the cruise. I ended up participating, dancing with a crew member from the buffet team and ended up *winning* the whole competition. And yes, I ended up doing a split. There’s something I didn’t think I’d do on a cruise ship…

Other activities and entertainment

From regular perusing of the daily itinerary, there are additional activities to enjoy. Discovery ensured that there were enough options to choose from on both sea days and days at port. On some other cruise lines, there was next to nothing to do in the afternoons, so this was a nice touch.

Below, find a sampling of events and activities you may expect to experience aboard Discovery Princess:

• “Deal or No Deal” show: Similar to Bingo, which was also offered aboard Discovery, game cards for Deal or No Deal were being sold. As an audience member, you have quite a few chances to win the ultimate prize, following along as the show goes on.
• Casino : Many cruisers enjoy spending time at the casino, whether it be individual slot machines or Blackjack and Roulette tables. I enjoyed spending some time at the Casino, but keep in mind this is only open during times at sea due to port laws and regulations.
• Fitness classes : Discovery offers a gym-grade fitness center with professional equipment and even pilates, barre, yoga and HIIT classes you can sign up for.
• Line dancing : On Discovery, there’s a ton of line dancing happening in The Piazza, the main epicenter of the ship. This exists on other cruises I’ve sailed on as well, but this sailing took it to the next level.
• Afternoon tea : During sea days, Discovery hosted an afternoon tea at 3:00 p.m. in one of the three main dining rooms. Complete with finger sandwiches, teas and handhelds, passengers loved the experience. We skipped it on our cruise only because one of our excursions in Victoria, Canada was having high tea at a mansion.
• Cocktail experiences : Around 4:45 p.m. or so, Discovery hosted cocktail experiences every few days. This sip-and-learn activity is hosted at one of the main bars and a bartender will walk you through crafting tips, different flavor pairings and, of course, mixing drinks right in front of you.

Food and drink options

An incredible, standout feature aboard Discovery Princess was its wealth of well-varied food and beverage options. If you’ve been on a cruise before, you know you’ll never go hungry, but this ship’s prized dining room service, quality and flair was a step above other cruises I’ve been on.

Main Dining Room

Discovery Princess has three main dining rooms: Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, all named after locations in Alaska, one of the ship’s most-traveled-to destinations. Each passenger or passenger group will be assigned one of the three main dining rooms to eat at each evening with different times as well. Wonderfully, there was much flexibility at each dining room if you preferred to dine a bit earlier or later than your scheduled time.

Compared to other ships, the food in the main dining rooms was much better and closely on par with the multitude of specialty dining options you’ll find on board. You’ll find at least one formal night (aka, lobster night for seafood fans) where nearly everyone is decked out in cocktail attire to take professional photos and enjoy a delicious menu. Production-level shows are usually this night as well.

Breakfast in the main dining room was also an enjoyable experience, where you can enjoy fresh juices, pastries, fruits and main courses. The menu was smaller than other cruises I’ve been on, but this wasn’t a dealbreaker.

The World Fresh Marketplace

The World Fresh Marketplace, otherwise known as the buffet, didn’t have a miles-long line like some other cruises I’ve sailed on. The options were diverse, delicious and perfect for a quick bite. Veronica and I loved the taco bar and pasta station, as well as the fresh fruit counter. Not to mention, the service is one of the best; waitstaff circles around tables to offer you fresh water, juice or soda on trays, making it extra convenient for your overall dining experience.

International Café

Located on Deck 5 next to The Piazza, International Café is a complimentary, luxury-leaning, grab-and-go counter where you’ll find fresh pastries (note: the almond croissants, heated up, are to die for), desserts and handcrafted sandwiches. This is also where you can grab lattes, cappuccinos and other beverages.

Veronica and I dined here nearly every morning before an early excursion because it’s delicious, in a great location and, overall, a quick venue. The service was top-notch and well-loved by passengers; plenty of people aboard grabbed a coffee and sat at one of the tables along The Piazza to enjoy live pianists, vocalists and other entertainment throughout the day and into the evening.

What’s more, the International Café is complimentary. On other cruise lines, each specialty coffee and pastry was an extra charge. This is a testament to Princess Cruises’ affinity for quality-first dining experiences.

Ocean Terrace Sushi Bar

The love I have for Ocean Terrace Sushi Bar is tenfold. Before dinner on some evenings, Veronica and I would head to this modern counter — located right above and overlooking The Piazza — to enjoy fresh crab, shrimp and spicy tuna rolls that are handmade right in front of our eyes. The quality was some of the best I’ve had. It’s a casual yet spectacular setting. Additional charges may apply depending on what you order.

Gigi’s Pizzeria by Alfredo

Also one deck above The Piazza, Gigi’s Pizzeria by Alfredo is another sit-down locale where you can enjoy live music surrounding you. This was the first food venue Veronica and I dined at for lunch on embarkation day and we loved the fresh Margherita and veggie pizzas, as well as the salads.

Uniquely, the pizza options are certified authentic Neapolitan pizza, much like its gelato on board (which is located on the same deck as The Piazza, and one of the only cruise ships to boast gelato that’s certified by the Italian government). Pretty iconic, to say the least.

360: An Extraordinary Experience

If you ask me about the most memorable experience aboard Discovery Princess of them all, it was what’s called 360. This isn’t just any specialty dining venue. For an additional charge per person (about $150 or so), the dining staff will take you through “a journey through tastes, sights, sounds, textures and scents,” per the cruise line.

This seven-course journey is both filling and fantastically put together. Without giving too much away, the meals are inspired by the Mediterranean and, according to the hostess Magdalena, “you won’t find this food anywhere else on board — even at the specialty dining venues.”

This 360 Experience is reserved for 13-year-olds and older, though my group had nobody younger than 21-years-old. For some, the idea of not knowing what you’ll be eating can be somewhat terrifying but rest assured, the team takes any dietary restrictions into account. For instance, Veronica has a shellfish allergy an they made an equally delicious substitute. If you take anything away from this review, book 360 .

The Catch by Rudi

Veronica and I enjoyed The Catch by Rudi , Discovery’s seafood specialty restaurant. Everything from the service to the presentation was extravagant and this was my favorite specialty restaurant on the ship. It’s a pure celebration of all things ocean.

Typical of other specialty restaurants you’ll find, you’ll choose one appetizer, one main course and one dessert. The cocktails at The Catch by Rudi were some of our favorites. My dish, called the Triple S Platter because it contained salmon, scallops and shrimp, was mouthwatering. There was even a hanging prawn on my plate when our waitress brought it out!

Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria

You can take the girl out of New Jersey, but you can’t take New Jersey out of the girl. From someone who comes from a family making their own sauce each Sunday, Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria was a much-needed dining option in my books. Here, you’ll actually find a five-course meal: an appetizer, a soup or salad, a pasta, an entree and a dessert. In short, come hungry.

The food and cocktails here were incredible and we loved the on-the-house rice balls the waitstaff presented to each table. It was so delicious that we ordered room service from Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria one evening as we watched Discovery sail away from one of our ports. It was heaven .

Sometimes, you just want a comfort meal, like lasagna or lemon chicken. Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria 100% satisfied that craving for both of us, and we enjoyed every minute of our time here.

Crown Grill

Ah, we’ve landed at Discovery’s steakhouse. Ranked one of the best cruise ship steakhouses, per Princess Cruises website, Crown Grill features premium aged beef and fresh seafood items. Its open kitchen design and elegant setting make it a lovely choice. Not to mention, you can have a tasting of all of the sides.

Above all else, you’ll want to experience Crown Grill’s ribeye steak and filet mignon if you’re a lover of chops. The glazes, sauces, whipped butter and specialty salts (yes, you read that correctly) made the experience very upscale.

Whether you take excursions is entirely based on personal preference. On the Pacific Wine Country Tour aboard Discovery Princess , Veronica and I embarked on the following crew-organized options:

• San Diego, CA : City Drive & La Jolla Highlights
• San Francisco, CA : Sonoma Wine Country
• Astoria, Oregon : Willamette Valley Wine Country
• Victoria, Canada : High Tea at Pendray Mansion & City Highlights

From experiencing some of the best wine in the Pacific to learning the ins and outs of popular locations like San Francisco and Vancouver Island, we felt each tour was well-organized and worth the added cost. Among all the excursions on this particular voyage, we enjoyed Sonoma Wine Country the most because, after all, who doesn’t want to travel to Napa?

Booking excursions is simple to do so on the Princess app. Or, you can opt to check in regularly with the Shore Excursions desk on Deck 5 near The Piazza to ask any questions you may have. Veronica and I decided to swap our previously booked biking excursion in Oregon to experience more of wine country and the crew staff was able to reprint new tickets as the tour wasn’t fully booked.

If you aren’t able to book your first-choice excursion, I wouldn’t worried. While there aren’t guarantees, Princess will hold you on an organized waitlist. In fact, Veronica and I were on a waitlist for Sonoma Wine Country and luckily joined the tour.

Additionally, every excursion through Princess guarantees your arrival back on the ship as it departs. You’ve likely heard of “cruise horror stories” where certain cruise lines will leave you if you’re not back by the arranged on-board time. Even if an excursion is running a bit late (like mine in Oregon), rest assured the ship will not depart without you. If you opt to journey at a port on your own and you’re late, that may be a different story.

Special features

Without a doubt, Discovery Princess had a catalog of special features that I remember even after my cruise. Below, find them listed:

• MedallionClass : Instead of a stateroom card that serves as your ID and cabin entry, Discovery operates via a Medallion that’s a bit larger than a quarter and inscribed with your name. Whether you use the included lanyard or opt to buy a Medallion accessory, like a clip, this makes it so much easier to charge extras to your ship account (called your Folio). The Medallion serves as a tracker as well, so the service tends to operate quicker than other ships because of facial recognition, made possible by the photo you took on embarkation day or that you’ve uploaded to your Princess app profile. You can even enter your stateroom hands-free!
• The Enclave at Lotus Spa : For about $165 per person, you can enjoy unlimited access to The Enclave, the private resort-style room at the Lotus Spa where you’ll find a jet pool, saunas and heated beds. You’ll also have access to the Relaxation Room, a wonderful sanctuary for reading, meditating and enjoying ice water with cucumber or lemon. This made the trip feel a bit more higher-end than what may be offered on some older ships.
• Larger than usual staterooms : Veronica and I were at a balcony cabin which tends to be larger than interior staterooms. However, when I first entered our balcony cabin, I was blown away by how much space we had. Other cruise lines had extremely small bathrooms, showers and walking space near the beds. The ship’s design — featuring smaller staircase landings and hallways — allows the individual rooms to be a hair larger than most other ships.
• Smooth embarkation and disembarkation process : Largely in part by the MedallionClass experience, Veronica and I were able to disembark within 30 minutes. I’ve experienced hours upon hours of wait times at other cruise ports and was impressed by the swiftness to enter and leave the ship. Plus, Princess accommodates your preferred time on most occasions, especially if you have a flight booked.
• Ship size : You won’t feel like you’re at a shopping mall on Discovery. The ship occupies 3,660 guests instead of 8,000 or so I’ve experienced on other ships. This is the ideal size in my opinion and, considering a quite manageable passenger count, there was *so* much to do. You’re receiving the complete cruise experience sans the chaos, which we both appreciated.

The bottom line

Everything from the dining experiences to activities and overall service on the Discovery Princess made our voyage extremely memorable. Each step of the way, I felt as if I was on a luxury vacation, even though some experiences — like specialty dining and the Lotus Spa — were additional costs. The Production Shows, endless entertainment and accommodations deserve awards of their own, and I would surely set sail on another Princess Cruise again. Veronica, first-time cruiser, would, too!

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